Shiitake mushroom (dried) 표고버섯
This unique mushroom is an obvious choice for Korean dishes because it is versatile and affordable. The meaty texture and smoky flavor is great on its own or paired with other varieties. In its fresh form, the shiitake mushroom has a rich, buttery, meaty flavor quite unlike other mushrooms. When dried, this mushroom emotes an earthy, smokey scent. Because of their sponge-like texture, they tend to absorb and hold flavors very well. They are used in many well known Korean dishes: Bulgogi, Jap-chae, Galbi-jjim and Bibimbap, to name a few, as well as many different side dishes and soups. They are sold fresh and in dried versions. Shiitake mushrooms are rich in B vitamins and vitamin D, and are good sources of fiber and protein. They are also low in calories and an ideal food for a balanced diet. Dried shiitakes are excellent, and often preferable to fresh ones due to their more intense flavor.
You can buy Shiitake mushroom online here.
Sourcing & Selecting
Local Korean grocery market
At CrazyKoreanShopping.com
You can buy Shiitake mushroom online here.
Fresh- | |
Shiitakes never come in contact with dirt, so the only washing usually necessary is a gentle wipe with a damp cloth or a paper towel. |
|
|
Dried- |
Soak in water and rinse before using. To expedite the soaking and retain the flavor you can add sugar in the soaking water. |
They contain eritadenine, which helps lower cholesterol, and also provides several important minerals such as copper, manganese, phosphprus, pottasiumm, selenium and zinc. In a recent study, it was proven that consuming this mushroom can have a positive effect on the immune system. They possess antibacterial properties and have amino acid-like nutrients called ergothioneine with antioxidant properties. Shiitake mushrooms are rich in B vitamins, and are an excellent source of pantothenic acid, as well as a very good source of vitamin B2 and good source of vitamin B6, niacin, choline, and folate. They have a high concentration of minerals such as selenium, copper, zinc, and a manganese and are also a good source of vitamin D (in the D2 form) and dietary fiber.