Shiitake Mushrooms: Flavorful Nutrition Backed by Tradition & Science

Shiitake Mushrooms – Rich Flavor, Timeless Tradition, Modern Benefits
Shiitake mushrooms (Lentinula edodes) are prized worldwide for their savory, umami-rich taste and centuries of traditional use. Beyond their culinary appeal, shiitakes are valued for their naturally occurring compounds, including polysaccharides like lentinan, which have been widely studied for their potential health-supporting properties.

Our shiitake mushrooms are carefully sourced, lab-tested, and GMP-certified, ensuring freshness, purity, and consistent quality. Whether used in soups, stir-fries, teas, or herbal blends, shiitake mushrooms deliver both delicious flavor and trusted wellness support in every serving.

Flower Grade Shiitake Mushrooms:

Flower grade shiitake mushrooms refer to a premium category of dried shiitake mushrooms distinguished by their unique appearance and quality.

When shiitake mushrooms are dried, some caps naturally develop cracks or fissures on the surface that look like white or light-colored flower patterns. These markings are caused by specific growing conditions—such as cooler temperatures and slower growth—that allow the cap to split as it matures.

Because of this, flower grade shiitakes are considered higher quality:

• Appearance: Decorative “flower-like” cracks on the cap.

• Aroma & Flavor: Richer umami taste and stronger fragrance than standard shiitakes.

• Texture: Meatier and more robust, making them excellent for soups, stews, and gourmet cooking.

• Rarity: They require special cultivation conditions, so they’re less common and often priced higher.

In short, “flower grade” is a sign of premium quality, stronger aroma, and deeper flavor, making these shiitakes especially valued in Asian cuisine and fine cooking.

Mechanisms of Shiitake Mushrooms:

The mechanisms behind shiitake's health benefits are rooted in its rich composition of bioactive compounds. Some of the most notable include:

• Polysaccharides: These complex sugars, particularly beta-glucans, are known to enhance the immune system by stimulating immune cells and promoting a balanced immune response.

• Lentinan: A specific polysaccharide found in shiitake, lentinan has been studied for its ability to enhance the body’s natural defense mechanisms and has been used as an adjunct in cancer treatment due to its immune-boosting properties.

• Eritadenine: This compound helps reduce cholesterol levels by inhibiting the absorption of fats in the liver, supporting cardiovascular health and liver detoxification.

• Adenosine: Known for its ability to improve blood circulation, adenosine helps dilate blood vessels and prevent the formation of clots, which can enhance heart health.

Shiitaki Soup Recipe

Shiitake Mushroom Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

• 8-10 dried shiitake mushrooms (or 2 cups fresh shiitake mushrooms, sliced)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil or olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon miso paste (optional for added depth)
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Shiitake Mushrooms:

   • If using dried shiitake mushrooms, soak them in warm water for about 20-30 minutes until they are soft. Once softened, drain and squeeze out excess water, then slice them thinly. Reserve the soaking liquid by straining it through a fine mesh sieve (you can add this to the soup for extra flavor).
   • If using fresh shiitake mushrooms, simply clean and slice them.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:

   • In a large pot, heat sesame oil (or olive oil) over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.
   • Add the minced garlic and ginger, and continue to sauté for another minute, until fragrant.

3. Add Mushrooms:

   • Add the sliced shiitake mushrooms to the pot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms soften and release their moisture.

4. Simmer the Soup:

   • Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth (and the reserved mushroom soaking liquid if you have it). Stir in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and miso paste (if using).
   • Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

5. Season and Serve:

   • Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed.
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with sliced green onions and fresh cilantro or parsley.

Optional Add-Ins:

• Add tofu, cooked noodles, or bok choy to make the soup heartier.
• A drizzle of chili oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a spicy kick.

Enjoy your flavorful and nourishing shiitake mushroom soup!

Shiitake mushrooms are esteemed in TCM not only for their therapeutic effects but also for their ability to harmonize the body's systems, making them a valuable tool for promoting health and longevity.

Product Description

Common Names: Shiitake Mushrooms

Botanical Name: Lentinus edodes

Pin Yin Name: Xiang Gu

Other Names: Shiitake fungus, Forest Mushroom, Pasania fungus

Other Ingredients: None, nothing has been added to this mushroom.

Package Size: 340 Grams (appox 12 ounces)

Form: Whole 

Origin: China

Brand: Plum Flower

Cautions: Do not use if pregnant or nursing. May interefer with medications. 

California Prop 65 

Summary Of Shiitake Mushrooms

• Supports Immune System
• Benefits Heart Health
• Establishes Normal Blood Sugar when used with diet and exercise
• Helps to Maintain Normal Body Weight when used with diet and exercise
• Contains Antimicrobial Properties

Shiitake is a polysaccharide rich mushroom. 

Shiitake mushrooms are usually grown logs 8 to 15 cm (3 to 6 inches) in diameter and up to 1.2 meters (4 feet) long, but short thick logs (50 cm or 20 inches long) can also be used. Approximately 50 plugs are suitable for four or five logs. Shiitake mushrooms are touted for both their delicious taste and health benefits. These mushrooms can be dried or pickled.  Shiitake mushrooms are high in protein, fiber, carbs, vitamins and minerals. In general most edible mushroom varieties are well know for their health benefits, but shiitake seems to be one of the most beneficial. Shiitake Mushrooms are characterized by their tan-to-brown, umbrella-shaped, medium-sized caps. The edges of their caps roll inward.

Check out our How to Use Bulk Herbs page to see how to use herbs correctly. Herbal Information for Shiitake Mushrooms in Sliced  Form

References:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiitake
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25866155/
https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/shiitake-mushroom
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fgqlptt9WY0