Shitake Mushroom Identification

Color

• Shiitake mushrooms are chocolaty brown and often may look black in color. They contrast with straw mushrooms, which are more gray or off-white.

Shape

• Shiitake mushrooms have a traditional mushroom shape with an umbrella-shaped cap and a woody stem.

Location

• Shiitake mushrooms are found in East Asian countries such as Japan, typically growing on shii trees, which are related to oaks. The mushrooms are now grown and harvested in America as well.

Medicinal Properties

• Shiitake mushrooms have anti-tumor and anti-viral properties and contain cholesterol-lowering compounds, according to the American Cancer Society.

Season

• Shiitake mushrooms grow year-round and are also cultivated year-round. They are often found in Asian supermarkets and can now be commonly found in supermarkets in the U.S. They are available fresh or dried.

Cooking

• Shiitake mushrooms can be sauteed for vegetable dishes, served in soups or fried and steamed.