Shiitake Mushrooms

Lentinula edodes Fungi (Vegetable)

Shiitake Mushrooms Fungi (Vegetable)

At a Glance

  • Category Fungi (Vegetable)

The Forktionary Angle

"The forest's umami treasure: depth and texture from nature."

Definition

Edible mushrooms highly prized for their rich, earthy, umami flavor and meaty texture, extensively used in Asian cuisines.

Health Benefit Known for immune-boosting properties and being a good source of B vitamins.
Preparation Tip The stems of shiitake are tough; remove before cooking but can be used for broths.
Umami Booster Contain guanylate, a potent umami compound, especially when dried and rehydrated.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Shiitake Mushrooms are:

Earthy Umami Savory Woody

Chef’s Secret

For intense umami, rehydrate dried shiitake in warm water or broth for at least 30 minutes, then use the flavorful soaking liquid in your dish.

Best Substitutes

Cremini mushrooms

less umami
Ratio 1:1

Portobello mushrooms

for texture, less umami
Ratio 1:1

Dried porcini

different flavor profile
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Available fresh or dried. For fresh, look for firm caps. For dried, choose whole, thick caps; store airtight.

Recipes Using Shiitake Mushrooms

4 Hours Or Less Preparation Course Cuisine

Asian Chicken Meatball Rice Noodle Soup

Warm up on a chilly night with this comforting Asian Chicken Meatball Rice Noodle Soup! Tender chicken meatballs simmered in a fragrant broth with vibrant bok choy, crisp carrots, and delicate rice noodles. This easy-to-follow recipe delivers a delicious and authentic Asian flavor experience perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. Get ready for a bowl of pure comfort!

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One Dish Meal Time To Make Dietary Meat

Bacon And Wild Mushroom Risotto With Baby Spinach

Indulge in this creamy, decadent Bacon and Wild Mushroom Risotto, elevated with fresh baby spinach! This recipe, inspired by Cooking Light, delivers a perfect balance of savory bacon, earthy mushrooms, and delicate spinach. Get ready for a flavor explosion in just an hour. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a special weeknight treat.

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Fish 30 Minutes Or Less Saltwater Fish Occasion

Asian Glazed Salmon With Oriental Salad

Impress your taste buds with this vibrant Asian Glazed Salmon and Oriental Salad! This 30-minute recipe is surprisingly easy, yet delivers restaurant-quality flavor. The perfectly glazed salmon, boasting a sweet and savory sauce, complements the crisp and refreshing oriental salad to create a truly unforgettable meal. Fool your friends – they'll never guess how simple this dish is to make!

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Low In Something Low In Something Preparation Course

Basil Spinach Salad With Lime Vinaigrette

This vibrant and refreshing Basil Spinach Salad with Zesty Lime Vinaigrette is the perfect light yet satisfying addition to any meal! Easy to prepare in just 30 minutes, this recipe combines fresh spinach, fragrant basil, creamy avocado, and tangy feta cheese, all tossed in a bright and flavorful lime dressing. A healthy and delicious choice for lunch or a side dish.

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Healthy 2 Low Protein Low Cholesterol Healthy 2

Barley And Mushroom Casserole

This comforting barley and mushroom casserole is bursting with savory flavor! Hearty barley, earthy mushrooms, and a rich broth combine to create a dish that's perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The casserole magically thickens as it cools, resulting in a creamy texture that's simply irresistible. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing recipe!

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Holiday Event Occasion Holiday Event 4 Hours Or Less

Bacon Wrapped Beef Tenderloin With Madeira

Elevate your holiday table with this show-stopping Bacon-Wrapped Beef Tenderloin! This recipe, inspired by a Southern Living Christmas cookbook, features a succulent beef tenderloin, perfectly wrapped in crispy bacon, and drizzled with a luxurious Madeira wine sauce. A crowd-pleaser for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion, this dish is easier to make than you think! Prep ahead components and a quick-to-make sauce ensure a stress-free cooking experience. Dry cooking sherry can be substituted for Madeira if needed. Serve alongside your favorite sides for a complete and unforgettable meal.

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Time To Make Main Ingredient Casseroles Main Dish

Barley Mushroom Casserole

This comforting Barley and Mushroom Casserole is the ultimate cozy meal! Perfectly caramelized onions, tender barley, and earthy mushrooms create a rich and satisfying dish perfect for a chilly evening. Get ready for a flavor explosion that will warm your soul!

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Low In Something Rice Pasta Rice And Grains Cuisine

Best Wild Mushroom Risotto

Prepare for an unforgettable culinary journey with this authentic wild mushroom risotto recipe! This creamy, dreamy dish is surprisingly easy to make, even for risotto novices. The secret? Constant stirring unlocks the magic, resulting in a perfectly textured risotto that will impress even the most discerning palates. Fresh herbs elevate this dish to new heights; trust us, the rave reviews will speak for themselves. Get ready to savor every bite!

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Poultry Preparation Asian Dinner Party

Asian Braised Duck Legs

Fall-off-the-bone tender duck legs braised to perfection with aromatic Asian spices! Inspired by Ming Tsai, this recipe delivers rich, savory flavors in every bite. A guaranteed crowd-pleaser for your next dinner party or a cozy weeknight meal.

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Cuisine Time To Make Cuisine Equipment

Asian Risotto

Experience a flavor explosion with this Pacific Rim-inspired shrimp risotto! A comforting twist on a classic, this recipe boasts succulent shrimp, fragrant ginger and garlic, crunchy pine nuts, and fresh cilantro. Say goodbye to traditional risotto and hello to a vibrant, umami-rich dish that's quick to make and guaranteed to impress. Adapted from a local grocery store recipe.

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Preparation Time To Make Preparation 60 Minutes Or Less

Steamed Pork Dumplings

These incredibly juicy and flavorful steamed pork dumplings are a must-try! Inspired by a Canadian LCBO recipe, these dumplings are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or light dinner. Easily adaptable with chicken or turkey, and freezable for future convenience. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce (we recommend recipe #397489). Get ready for a delicious culinary adventure!

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Time To Make Dietary Vegetarian Preparation

Amazing Mushroom Triangles

These Amazing Mushroom Triangles are unbelievably easy to make and bursting with flavor! Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Made with a flaky vegan pastry (easily adaptable to your favorite brand!), these savory triangles are freezer-friendly for ultimate convenience. Simply pop them in the oven straight from frozen for a delicious and satisfying meal any time. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Time To Make European Stews 30 Minutes Or Less

Bad Hunter Stew Aka Setian Stew

A hearty and flavorful vegetarian stew inspired by classic hunter's stew, but with a delicious vegan twist! Phil's accidentally brilliant creation uses seitan for a meaty texture and is perfect for a cozy Christmas dinner or any chilly evening. This recipe is surprisingly easy to make and packed with umami goodness from mushrooms and miso.

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Main Dish Time To Make Main Ingredient Asian

Asian Pasta With Tofu Shiitake Mushrooms And Broccoli

A vibrant and healthy Asian-inspired pasta dish from the NYT, bursting with umami flavors! Perfectly crisp-tender broccoli, savory shiitake mushrooms, and pan-seared tofu combine with delicious noodles in a light yet satisfying sauce. Prep ahead for a quick weeknight meal – blanch the broccoli and prep ingredients hours in advance! This recipe is perfect for vegetarians and those seeking a healthy, flavorful dinner.

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Dinner Party Romantic Fruit Preparation

Asian Vegetables With Tofu And Coconut Milk

This lightning-fast Asian-inspired stir-fry bursts with vibrant vegetables, tender tofu, and a luscious coconut milk sauce. Ready in just 13 minutes, it's a weeknight dinner winner! Perfect for a healthy and flavorful meal.

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To Go For 1 Or 2 Sandwiches To Go

Asian Vegetable And Chicken Wrap

Quick & Easy Asian Vegetable and Chicken Wraps! This vibrant recipe from Chef Cary Neff's "Today's Kitchen Cookbook" is perfect for a light lunch, satisfying dinner, or even a refreshing salad. Tender chicken and crisp vegetables tossed in a savory sesame dressing (see recipe #228999) are nestled in warm tortillas and topped with crunchy sunflower sprouts. Get ready for a flavor explosion in just 15 minutes!

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Low Saturated Fat Healthy Preparation Time To Make

Andrew Weil's Shiitake Teriyaki

Experience the umami explosion of Andrew Weil's Shiitake Teriyaki! This recipe, adapted from Paul Stamets' "Growing Gourmet and Medicinal Mushrooms," delivers tender, savory shiitake mushrooms glazed to perfection in a rich teriyaki sauce. A quick and easy weeknight meal or elegant appetizer, this dish is perfect for mushroom lovers and health-conscious cooks alike. Get ready to savor the earthy delight!

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30 Minutes Or Less Main Dish Main Ingredient Course

Garlic Noodles With Vegetables Cheesecake Factory Style Copycat

Indulge in a restaurant-quality Garlic Noodles with Vegetables recipe, inspired by the Cheesecake Factory! This easy 25-minute meal features perfectly cooked spaghettini tossed with sautéed asparagus, mushrooms, broccoli, and juicy tomatoes in a luscious garlic butter sauce. A quick, flavorful, and satisfying dinner that's sure to become a family favorite. #GarlicNoodles #CheesecakeFactoryCopycat #PastaRecipe #EasyDinner #VegetarianRecipe

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