Nutritional Value Of Shiitake Mushrooms

Shiitake mushrooms (Lentinula edodes) are wonderful delectable mushrooms, which usually grow on the white oak logs. The plant is native to East Asia, particularly China, Japan, Korea and Thailand, where it has been cultivated for the past 1000 years. The known record of Shiitake cultivation can be traced back ion 199 AD, by Wu Sang Kwuang, born during the Song Dynasty (AD 960–1127). Today, the plant is cultivated on Shii trees. The mushrooms are produced at colder temperatures, by slicing shii trees and then placing the logs that were already producing shiitakes.

Shiitake is a popular mushroom in Japan and makes a part of the traditional dishes, particularly miso soup. The Chinese people use it in their traditional vegetarian dish, known as Buddha’s delight. Moreover, the wonder plant has been known for its excellent medicinal properties too. This medicinal mushroom provides relief from diseases like respiratory problems, liver trouble, weakness, poor blood circulation and exhaustion. It helps in boosting the life energy and prevents premature ageing. Read on to find all about the nutritional value of shiitake mushrooms.

Shiitake Mushrooms Nutrition Facts

Amount of Shiitake Mushrooms: 8 oz

Total Weight of Shiitake Mushrooms: 226.80 grams

Nutrients	Amount
Basic Components
Protein	4.98 g
Carbohydrates	12.46 g
Water	207.41 g
Ash	1.94 g
Calories
Total Calories	87.23 KJ
Carbohydrates
Dietary Fiber	2.49 g
Sugar	2.49 g
Other Carbs	7.48 g
Vitamins
Vitamin C	5.98 mg
Minerals
Iron	3.59 mg
Sodium	49.85 mg

Buying & Storing Facts

Always prefer buying fresh, organically-grown shiitake mushrooms, as compared to the stored or preserved ones.
Look for healthy-looking shiitake mushrooms that are dry, plump and green. Avoid buying wrinkled and wet mushrooms. Look for mushrooms that are dense, have small stems and soft caps.
Shiitake mushrooms are highly porous, so if they are exposed to too much water, they might turn soggy. Try cleaning them with a damp cloth or with mushroom brush, rather than washing them.
Shiitake mushrooms need water to keep them moist and proper air circulation to remain fresh. Always store fresh mushrooms in a partially closed paper bag and keep them in the refrigerator, where they will remain fresh for a week.
If you have bought dried shiitake mushrooms, keep them in tight containers, in a cool, dry, dark place. This way, they will remain fresh from six months to one year.
Pre-packaged, fresh shiitake mushroom can be kept in the containers or packets they were brought in, as these are specially designed to keep them fresh.
Prefer storing cooked shiitake mushroom over fresh mushroom, as the cooked ones, when wrapped, can last for a month in the freezer. Fry up the fresh mushrooms in butter or oil, before storing them.
Never store shiitake mushroom in a closed plastic bag, as it will lead to their early decay.
It is advisable not to wash shiitake mushroom before storing them, rather brush them off to remove dirt. You can rinse and pat them dry, using paper towel, before cooking.

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