How to Clean Shiitakes

Shiitake mushrooms are available either fresh or dried. They are popular in many Asian dishes but can be substituted for other mushrooms in most cuisines. Shiitake have a stronger flavor than most other mushrooms, so you can use less to achieve the same result in taste. Shiitake have tough, woody stems and often have the dirt they were grown in still on them. You can quickly and easily clean shiitake whether they be fresh or dried.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Knife Cutting board Damp cloth Bowl Water

1. Reconstitute dried shiitake in a bowl of warm water for at least 30 minutes. Pat dry.

2. Cut of the stems of either the fresh or dried version. Insert the knife under the cap and cut where the stem meets the flesh of the cap.

3. Discard any shiitake that feel slimy, especially on the top of the cap. Shiitake have a brown cap and nearly pure white flesh.

4. Wipe away any dirt with a damp cloth. Gently rub the stuck-on dirt, being careful not to damage the flesh. Run under cool water.

5. Slice or use the shiitake whole in your favorite recipe.

Tips & Warnings

• Store shiitake mushrooms in a brown paper bag in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Use shiitake stems in soups or stews where the slow cooking time will soften them. The water used to reconstitute shiitake can be used instead of broth in many recipes.
• Do not soak fresh mushrooms in water as they will absorb the liquid and damage the texture.

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