Shiitake (Lentines edodes)

Other names: edible mushroom, shii-take, shiitake, oak mushroom, oak mushroom, oak wood mushroom, Chinese black mushroom, forest mushroom, hua gu, qua gu

Harm score: 1 (Natural substances)

Shiitake (Lentinus edodes), also known as edible mushroom, shii-take, shiitake, oak mushroom, oak mushroom, oak wood mushroom, Chinese black mushroom, forest mushroom, hua gu, or qua gu, is a stalked mushroom that originated in Asia, where it has been widely cultivated and consumed for millennia. Today it is also grown in large quantities in Europe and North America. Shiitake is widely popular for its specific taste and aroma, but also for its medicinal properties. In fact, it contains a number of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that contribute to the strengthening of the immune system and also contribute to the prevention of certain types of cancer.

Shiitake mushrooms are used in a wide range of products. Of course, they are used in gastronomy, where they are part of many traditional Asian dishes, but also in modern culinary creations around the world. They are a great ingredient in soups, sauces, vegetable mixtures, mushroom ragouts or even sushi. Thanks to their distinctive aroma and texture, they are also popular as a meat substitute in vegetarian and vegan recipes. In addition, shiitake mushrooms are used in the food industry for the production of dried mushrooms, mushroom seasonings or instant soups. In addition, they are also used to make food supplements and medicines and have been used in Chinese medicine for centuries. In the wellness and cosmetics industry, shiitake mushrooms can be found in a wide range of products such as face masks, serums and creams, as they also have a rejuvenating and regenerating effect on the skin.