Funghi
Shiitake
Shiitake (Lentinula edodes) is an East Asian cultivated mushroom prized for deep umami, meaty texture, and a distinctive smoky-garlic aroma when dried. Fresh caps are firm and savoury; dried shiitake concentrate flavour for stocks, braises, and rehydrated dishes. Log-grown and sawdust-block methods shape intensity. Stems are tougher than caps and often reserved for stock, while open caps suit grilling, stir-frying, and simmering.
Also known as: Shiitake, Xiang gu, Pyogo
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History
Chinese growers developed early log cultivation of shiitake in forest regions.
Japanese cultivation refined shiitake as a staple of temple and home cookery.
Inoculated log and later sawdust techniques industrialised shiitake production.
Fresh and dried shiitake entered global supermarkets beyond East Asian markets.