How to Prepare Shiitake Mushrooms

Co-authored by Ollie George Cigliano

Last Updated: December 10, 2022 References Approved

The shiitake mushroom is a favorite of those who prefer a meaty, rich-flavored mushroom. Originating from Asian countries, primarily Japan and Korea, this variety was once gathered mainly in the wild but is now cultivated. Shiitake mushrooms are large in size and have an earthy flavor that is typical of wild mushrooms. Shiitake mushrooms go well in meat dishes, soups, sauces and gravies, or can be prepared as a side dish. Because they are so rich and flavorful, they can also be used as a substitute for meat. They can also be cooked using a variety of methods to bring out their naturally good flavor. Learning how to prepare shitake mushrooms will give you the basics to create many dishes using this hearty variety of mushroom.

Steps

1
Wash your mushrooms thoroughly but gently.^{[1]
X
Research source}
2
Remove any tough spots on the stems, or the entire stem, when preparing shiitake mushrooms.^{[2]
X
Research source}
- If the stems are tender, you don't have to cut them away. They can be used along with the caps of the mushrooms for added flavor.^{[3]
  X
  Research source}
Advertisement
3
Dry your shiitake mushrooms by blotting them with paper towel or a clean kitchen towel.
4
Cut your shitake mushrooms as desired using a sharp kitchen knife or a mandoline slicer.
- Depending on the recipe and the method you decide to use in shiitake mushroom preparation, you can slice them, chop them into pieces, or even use them whole. Slices go well for side dishes, while smaller pieces are best in soups, stuffings or sauces.
5
Gather other ingredients you might need for preparing your shiitake mushrooms, including butter, oil and herbs and spices.
- Use woody herbs such as rosemary and sage to infuse mushrooms with flavor.
6
Select the desired method of cooking your shiitake mushrooms.^{[4]
X
Research source}
- You can grill them by brushing them with olive oil and putting them on the grill for about 5 to 10 minutes. Sauté them with butter, salt and pepper for 4 to 5 minutes in a hot skillet.^{[5]
  X
  Research source} Try roasting them sliced or whole in the oven for about 15 minutes after basting them with oil. It's a good idea to sautée them with a bit of diced onions and garlic cloves.
- If you plan to prepare shiitake mushrooms by using them in a recipe such as stuffed mushroom caps, mushroom stuffing, or mushroom gravy, closely follow the recipe of your choice.
7
Serve your prepared shiitake mushrooms.

Community Q&A

Question

Can I boil them and make a tea?

Community Answer

Yes, you may boil them and make a tea from the water.
Question

Can I use them in an omelet?

Community Answer

Of course. You can use any type of mushroom in an omelet.
Question

Can I put them in soup?

Community Answer

Yes, you can put them into the soup when it's simmering for about 3 minutes.

Warnings

Avoid purchasing shiitake mushrooms that have discoloration or blotchy brown spots as they may not be fresh. Also avoid those that have a slimy texture.

⧼thumbs_response⧽
Helpful 4 Not Helpful 2
Do not soak fresh shiitake mushrooms. They are porous, and exposing them to water too long will cause them to become soggy.

⧼thumbs_response⧽
Helpful 1 Not Helpful 1