How to Prepare Shiitake Mushrooms

Co-authored by wikiHow Staff

Last Updated: November 29, 2021 References Tested

The shiitake mushroom is a favorite of those who prefer a meaty, rich-flavored mushroom. Originating from Asian countries, primarily Japan and Korea, this variety was once gathered mainly in the wild but is now cultivated. Shiitake mushrooms are large in size and have an earthy flavor that is typical of wild mushrooms. Shiitake mushrooms go well in meat dishes, soups, sauces and gravies, or can be prepared as a side dish. Because they are so rich and flavorful, they can also be used as a substitute for meat. They can also be cooked using a variety of methods to bring out their naturally good flavor. Learning how to prepare shitake mushrooms will give you the basics to create many dishes using this hearty variety of mushroom.

Steps

1
Select your shiitake mushrooms from the produce section of your local grocery store.^{[1]
X
Research source}
2
Wash your mushrooms thoroughly but gently.^{[2]
X
Research source}
3
Remove any tough spots on the stems, or the entire stem, when preparing shiitake mushrooms.^{[3]
X
Research source}
- If the stems are tender, you don't have to cut them away. They can be used along with the caps of the mushrooms for added flavor.^{[4]
  X
  Research source}
4
Dry your shiitake mushrooms by blotting them with paper towel or a clean kitchen towel.
5
Cut your shitake mushrooms as desired using a sharp kitchen knife.
- Depending on the recipe and the method you decide to use in shiitake mushroom preparation, you can slice them, chop them into pieces, or even use them whole. Slices go well for side dishes, while smaller pieces are best in soups, stuffings or sauces.
6
Gather other ingredients you might need for preparing your shiitake mushrooms, including butter, oil and herbs and spices.
7
Select the desired method of cooking your shiitake mushrooms.^{[5]
X
Research source}
- You can grill them by brushing them with olive oil and putting them on the grill for about 5 to 10 minutes. Sauté them with butter, salt and pepper for 4 to 5 minutes in a hot skillet.^{[6]
  X
  Research source} Try roasting them sliced or whole in the oven for about 15 minutes after basting them with oil.
- If you plan to prepare shiitake mushrooms by using them in a recipe such as stuffed mushroom caps, mushroom stuffing, or mushroom gravy, closely follow the recipe of your choice.
8
Serve your prepared shiitake mushrooms.

Community Q&A

Question

Can I boil them and make a tea?

Community Answer

Yes, you may boil them and make a tea from the water.
Question

Can I use them in an omelet?

Community Answer

Of course. You can use any type of mushroom in an omelet.
Question

Can I put them in soup?

Community Answer

Yes, you can put them into the soup when it's simmering for about 3 minutes.
Question

How long should I marinate it in teriyaki?

Community Answer

2 to 3 hours for best results. Keep them in the fridge during the marination process.
Question

Do you use the skins on shiitake mushrooms?

Fae Lynne

Community Answer

Shiitake mushrooms don't have a "skin" like other vegetables do. You just cook them whole after washing them.
Question

Can I cook them in a stir-fry?

Community Answer

Yes. Be careful to not overcook them, though. Depending on what you're cooking them with, you can add them when all the other ingredients are already done cooking.
Question

Can I eat them raw in salad?

Community Answer

You could try, but shiitakes are tough, and best consumed cooked.
Question

Can they be frozen before or after cooking?

Community Answer

I let them air dry for an hour (after washing and blotting them dry), then chop and freeze them. Blot them again, then place them in a gallon plastic bag so they are not clumping together. Store them in that bag. Take out what you need for your recipe, and then return remaining mushrooms quickly to the freezer.
Question

Can I eat them raw?

Community Answer

Yes, you can eat them raw.
Question

How can I preserve mushrooms?

Community Answer

Dehydrate them in a dehydrator first. Then store in canning jars or whatever airtight storage option you have. To rehydrate them, put them in water for half an hour to an hour. They can be canned too.

Show more answers

Warnings

Avoid purchasing shiitake mushrooms that have discoloration or blotchy brown spots as they may not be fresh. Also avoid those that have a slimy texture.

Thanks!
Helpful 4 Not Helpful 2
Do not soak fresh shiitake mushrooms. They are porous, and exposing them to water too long will cause them to become soggy.

Thanks!
Helpful 1 Not Helpful 1