Shiitake mushrooms

Shiitake is an Asian mushroom used extensively in Japanese cooking.  Shiitakes are available both fresh and dried. Fresh mushrooms have an earthy flavor and meaty texture and make a good "meat substitute". Dried shiitakes need to be soaked and re-hydrated before use.  Shiitakes make a perfect addition to a wild mushroom soup.  Try combining them with portabellos and  porcini mushrooms.  Convert Shiitake Mushrooms From Cups To Grams

Where To Buy Shiitake Mushrooms

Depending on where you live you may find these fresh mushrooms cultivated locally and sold in farmer's markets (as is the case in many parts of California).  Due to the increase in popularity in the U.S. you may even find them in your local well-stocked grocery store.  We have found them in many Whole Foods Markets.

Substitute For Shiitake Mushrooms

If you can't find shiitake mushrooms or you'd just like an alternative you can use:

• Reconstituted dried shiitakes if fresh is not available.
• OR - Substitute portobello mushrooms
• OR - Crimini mushrooms which are portobello's little brothers
• You can use porcini mushrooms in place of shiitake but they have a stronger mushroom flavor and are less "meaty" than the shiitake.