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Mushrooms & Fungi

Shiitake Mushroom

Lentinus edodes · Xiāng Gū Neutral

Umami-rich edible mushroom providing beta-glucans, vitamin D precursors and deep savoury flavour.

Shiitake is the most popular functional mushroom that belongs firmly on the dinner plate. Its meaty umami makes stocks, stir-fries and soups taste richer while adding beta-glucans, B vitamins and ergosterol — a vitamin D precursor when sun-dried.

Nutrition Highlights

  • ✓Contains lentinan and other beta-glucans
  • ✓Sun-dried caps provide ergosterol (vitamin D precursor)
  • ✓Adds deep umami — great for low-salt cooking
  • ✓Good source of fibre and B vitamins

Everyday Food Uses

  • ●Simmered into umami-rich vegetable stock
  • ●Stir-fried with greens and garlic
  • ●Rehydrated and sliced into noodle soups
  • ●Blended into mushroom patties and gravies

How to Enjoy

3–5 dried mushrooms per dish. Soak in warm water 20 minutes, strain the soaking liquid and use it as stock.

Modern Research

Lentinan, a shiitake beta-glucan, is among the most studied mushroom polysaccharides for immune modulation, while a small human trial found daily cooked shiitake improved markers of immune-cell function.

⚠ Cautions

Cook thoroughly — raw or undercooked shiitake can cause a rare, temporary mushroom-induced skin reaction in sensitive people.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Shiitake Mushroom? +

Shiitake is the most popular functional mushroom that belongs firmly on the dinner plate. Its meaty umami makes stocks, stir-fries and soups taste richer while adding beta-glucans, B vitamins and ergosterol — a vitamin D precursor when sun-dried.

Shiitake Mushroom How do I eat? +

3–5 dried mushrooms per dish. Soak in warm water 20 minutes, strain the soaking liquid and use it as stock.

Are there cautions for Shiitake Mushroom? +

Cook thoroughly — raw or undercooked shiitake can cause a rare, temporary mushroom-induced skin reaction in sensitive people.

Where can I buy Shiitake Mushroom? +

Browse the related products on this page — packed fresh and shipped worldwide with tracking.

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. Our products are ordinary foods and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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