Shiitake Mushrooms Mushrooms with a unique aroma

Shiitake mushrooms are a staple in East Asian cuisine and practically always in stock in every household. If it is noticed before cooking that the mushrooms are out, someone will inevitably have to go out to get some at the usually nearby supermarket. They belong in many soups, many tofu dishes and many stir-fries. They are stored and used in dried form. Raw they don't taste so special, which is why they are actually only used when cooking. This article aims to give a little insight into how to use shiitake mushrooms, what dishes they go particularly well with and where they should be bought. ## Where you can buy dried shiitake mushrooms Asian markets or Chinese herbal shops are best. These are almost always run by Asians and they should know how the mushrooms should taste, how to store them and where to get the best quality mushrooms. Shiitake mushrooms from the supermarket are usually very bland and not a real asset when cooking. Prices are also often better in Asian markets. It is generally advisable to buy a decent amount at once, as the mushrooms are overall so much cheaper, plus they have a shelf life of several years. Half a kilo shouldn't cost more than 15 to 20 euros. And if you know someone who also loves to cook and maybe even Asian food, then shiitake mushrooms can be a very special gift.

Wagner Green Forest Shiitake Pilze asiatische Speisepilze zum Kochen & Essen, getrocknet & natürlich, ideal für Reis und Suppen, Menge: 1 x 100 g

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## What to look for when buying Always buy whole mushrooms only, as this is the only way to tell the quality. Thick mushrooms with white cracks in the cap often have a more intense flavor. Also, the amount in recipes is often given in caps. Also pay attention to the manufacturer's designations. Varieties such as "Flower" and "Hana" indicate that the mushrooms are of particularly good quality. If you have bought a large quantity of these mushrooms, the flavor can be preserved for a longer period of time by freezing a portion. Although this is not strictly necessary, everything that is exposed to air naturally loses its flavor, which can be counteracted in this way. ## How to use shiitake mushrooms Shiitake mushrooms must be soaked before use. Since the cap of the mushroom is much more intense, it is also used primarily. So remove the stem and place the cap in a water bath for at least 8 hours. This process reactivates the aroma in the mushroom and is a step that should not be skipped. Also turn the mushrooms over every now and then. Before you remove the mushrooms from the water bath, don't forget to clean them again and remove any sand. The water in which the mushrooms were soaked can also be saved and used. It is perfect for: * Soups * cooked chicken * Rice * Dumplings The reactivated shiitake mushrooms are best cut into small cubes and added to your food during cooking. They are best suited for: * Fish dishes * Mussels * Prawns * Meat dishes * Sauces * Soups If you are interested in Asian dishes, then go here, to our Japanese recipes