Organic Hen Of The Woods Mushrooms
Organic Hen of the Woods Mushrooms (also known as Maitake) have a light, pleasant taste, a pungent smell and a firm texture. Although they grow wild in frilly, clustered masses up to several feet in width, our dried Hen of the Woods Mushrooms are broken down into more manageable pieces from 1/2 to 5 inches.
Suggested uses
Basic prep
Rinse mushrooms under cold running water to remove any possible debris. To rehydrate prior to use, place desired amount into a bowl covered with boiling water and let soak for 15 to 20 minutes. Rinse well. Or, rinse and then add directly to any recipe that will cook at least 25 minutes.
Storage & handling
Store in a dry, cool place.
Ingredients
Organic Maitake Mushrooms.
The Hen of the Woods Mushroom (Grifola frondosa), also known as "Maitake," is an annual wild mushroom that grows on the ground at the base of hard woods, especially oak trees, in the eastern regions of North America. Its name comes from the mushroom's clustered growing pattern-forming a rounded mass of frilly, grayish-brown fan-shaped caps, all attached to a single, branched, whitish stem-which bears a slight resemblance to a ruffled chicken.
Known in Asia as "maitake," or "dancing mushroom," the Hen of the Woods Mushroom is considered to have medicinal properties, ranging from immune system support to improvements in blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Researchers are currently exploring these potential health benefits.
Meanwhile, cooks enjoy Hen of the Woods Mushrooms simply for their light, pleasant taste and pungent smell, and their firm texture. When fresh or rehydrated, the meaty-textured mushrooms respond well to roasting and grilling, as well as sautéing.
Classic recipe
Pasta with Hen of the Woods and Garlic
Hen of the Woods Mushrooms have a dense, meaty texture and savory flavor. We sauté Hen of the Woods with onion and garlic to make a rich cream sauce accented with tomatoes, and brightened with a bit of citrus.
