• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Chef JA Cooks
  • Recipes
  • About
  • Shop
  • Contact
  • 日本語日本語
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Recipes
  • About
  • Shop
  • Contact
  • 日本語日本語
search icon
Homepage link
  • Recipes
  • About
  • Shop
  • Contact
  • 日本語日本語
×
Home » Recipes » Japanese Vegetable Recipes

8 Easy Shiitake Mushroom Recipes and A Quick Guide

Published: May 30, 2023 · Modified: Aug 25, 2023 · Auther: Juri Austin

5 from 3 votes
JUMP TO RECIPE

This quick guide offers easy shiitake mushroom recipes and how to cook this versatile vegetable. Let's dive in and discover the deliciousness of shiitake mushrooms!

4 shiitake mushroom recipes.

When it comes to cooking shiitake mushrooms, you'll want to discover the best way to bring out their savory flavor. A versatile and edible mushroom, shiitake makes a perfect addition to a wide range of dishes, from sauteeing to soups.

In this guide, you will learn how to prepare shiitake mushrooms, different cooking methods, and easy-to-make recipes that you can try right away!

    This guide is for you if:
  • You love shiitake mushrooms.
  • You are looking for how to cook shiitake mushrooms.
  • You want to know how to prepare shiitake mushrooms.
  • You are searching for easy shiitake mushroom recipes.

Let's get started!

Jump to:
  • Brief Overview of Shiitake Mushrooms
  • What Do Shiitake Mushrooms Taste Like?
  • Health Benefits Of Shiitake Mushrooms
  • How to Pick Fresh Shiitake Mushrooms
  • How to Prepare Shiitake Mushrooms
  • Variety of Ways to Cook Shiitake Mushrooms
  • 8 Delicious Shiitake Mushroom Recipes
  • 1. Sautéed Shiitake Mushrooms
  • 2. Roasted Shiitake Mushrooms with Cheese
  • 3. Mushroom Miso Soup
  • 4. Creamy Shiitake Mushroom Soup
  • 5. Shiitake Mushroom Pasta
  • 6. Miso Udon Carbonara
  • 7. Fried Shiitake Mushrooms
  • 8. Shiitake Mushroom Tempura
  • Where To Buy Shiitake Mushrooms
  • FAQ
  • Thanks For Stopping By!
  • 📖 Recipe
  • 8 Easy Shiitake Mushroom Recipes and A Quick Guide
  • 💬 Comments

Brief Overview of Shiitake Mushrooms

Shiitake mushrooms with text

Shiitake mushrooms are one of the most popular mushrooms commonly used in Japanese cuisine and other Eastern Asian countries. They have a dark brown color with an umbrella-shaped cap and a firm stem.

Shiitake mushrooms are available all around the year, but the main seasons are spring and fall. During spring, the mushrooms are firm and have a delightful taste. In the fall, they are known for their pleasant fragrance.

As I mentioned earlier, fresh mushrooms are a versatile ingredient that can be used in many dishes. They can be sautéed, roasted, or used in soups to add rich umami flavor to the dish.

What Do Shiitake Mushrooms Taste Like?

Shiitake mushrooms with text

Shiitake mushrooms have a unique taste, often described as rich, savory, and meaty. The texture is slightly chewy, and they have a mild earthy smell, which is similar to Portobello mushrooms.

When cooked, shiitake mushrooms have an intensified umami flavor that can add depth and richness to a wide range of dishes.

Health Benefits Of Shiitake Mushrooms

Shiitake mushrooms with text

Shiitake mushrooms and other varieties of mushrooms are a nutritious choice as they are high in dietary fiber and contain vitamin D. They may also offer some health benefits and help support the immune system. If you are seeking a healthy food option, adding shiitake mushrooms is excellent!

Click here to find out more about the health benefits!

Dry in the Sun to Increase Nutritional Value

Shiitake mushrooms owe their rich and savory flavor to guanylic acid, an umami component that gives them their distinctive taste. You can easily enhance the amount of guanylic acid present in shiitake mushrooms through a simple trick.

To do so, place the mushrooms upside down with the stems facing up and let them dry in the sun for 30 minutes to 1 hour. This process not only intensifies the taste but also boosts the vitamin D content, which is beneficial for overall health.

How to Pick Fresh Shiitake Mushrooms

Shiitake mushrooms with text

To select tasty shiitake mushrooms, check their shape, color, and stem. Follow these guidelines for choosing the best ones:

  • Look for thick, brown, and glossy caps that are not entirely flat but have a dome shape.
  • Check that the back of the mushroom cap is whitish and the pleats are firm.
  • Ensure the stem is thick and short. Tougher stems are tasty.
  • Avoid choosing shiitake with brown backs, as this indicates they are not fresh.
  • Avoid choosing them altogether if you notice a sour smell, as they may have gone bad.

How to Prepare Shiitake Mushrooms

Shiitake mushrooms with text

To prepare shiitake mushrooms, follow these simple steps, and you'll be comfortable incorporating them into your favorite recipes. Let's dive in and learn how to prepare these mushrooms with ease!

  • Gently clean them with a damp paper towel to remove any dirt and debris.
  • Remove the stems of shiitake mushrooms by using a knife to cut them off (or gently twisting and pulling them off by hand). Don't throw away the tough stems! Instead, slice them thinly and use them to add a chewy texture to your dish.
  • Cut off the base of the stem, which is too tough to eat.
  • Avoid giving shiitake mushrooms a quick rinse under running cold water, as they can easily absorb moisture and lose their flavor and aroma.

Variety of Ways to Cook Shiitake Mushrooms

3 shiitake mushroom recipes

Shiitake mushrooms are a versatile ingredient that can be enjoyed in many different ways. With their meaty texture and earthy flavor, they are a popular addition to many dishes.

Some basic cooking methods to try include:

  • Sautéing
  • Stir-frying
  • Deep-frying
  • Grilling
  • Roasting
  • Stewing

In addition to these methods, shiitake mushrooms can also be used to add flavor to soups, sauces, burgers, salads, pasta dishes, and even as a topping for pizza.

With so many possibilities, it's easy to incorporate shiitake mushrooms into your meals. Here are some delicious recipes to try out!

8 Delicious Shiitake Mushroom Recipes

6 shiitake mushroom recipes

Let's dive into these delicious but easy shiitake mushroom recipes! Find the best way to cook them for you!

  1. Sautéed Shiitake Mushrooms
  2. Roasted Shiitake Mushrooms with Cheese
  3. Mushroom Miso Soup
  4. Creamy Shiitake Mushroom Soup
  5. Shiitake Mushroom Pasta
  6. Miso Udon Carbonara
  7. Fried Shiitake Mushrooms
  8. Shiitake Mushroom Tempura

1. Sautéed Shiitake Mushrooms

Sautéed shiitake mushrooms

These sauteed mushrooms make for a tasty side dish using simple ingredients. It's the easiest way to incorporate flavorful mushrooms into your everyday meal.

Easy Sauteed Shiitake Mushrooms
5 from 2 votes
These Sauteed Shiitake Mushrooms are an easy and simple recipe that requires only three ingredients! If you are looking for a delicious shiitake mushroom dish, try it!
Make This Recipe
sauteed shiitake mushrooms served on a plate.

2. Roasted Shiitake Mushrooms with Cheese

Roasted Shiitake Mushrooms with Cheese

This is one of my favorite recipes! Place shiitake mushroom caps on a sheet pan, drizzle them with soy sauce, and top them with cheese. Then, pop the pan in the oven and let the mushrooms roast until they are tender!

Savory Roasted Shiitake Mushrooms With Cheese
5 from 3 votes
If you're looking for a quick and easy appetizer, try these Roasted Shiitake Mushrooms with Cheese! I'm sure you will love this delicious side dish!
Make This Recipe

3. Mushroom Miso Soup

Mushroom Miso Soup

This cozy and flavorful miso soup is a great addition to any meal!

Simple Mushroom Miso Soup Recipe
5 from 4 votes
Make your own authentic, delicious and easy mushroom miso soup in 10 minutes! This cozy yet healthy soup will keep you warm on those chilling mornings!
Make This Recipe
Japanese mushroom miso soup in a bowl.

4. Creamy Shiitake Mushroom Soup

Creamy Shiitake Mushroom Soup
Creamy Shiitake Mushroom Soup (Vegan and Gluten-Free)
5 from 2 votes
Enjoy a bowl of this creamy shiitake mushroom soup as a nourishing starter before your main course. This delicious soup will leave you feeling satisfied and content!
Make This Recipe
Creamy shiitake mushroom soup served in a bowl.

5. Shiitake Mushroom Pasta

Shiitake Mushroom Pasta

If you're searching for a satisfying main dish featuring shiitake mushrooms, this pasta recipe is a wonderful choice!

Shiitake Mushroom Pasta Recipe (Vegan)
5 from 5 votes
Learn how to make Japanese-flavored shiitake mushroom pasta! Savor this pasta's rich, umami taste, crafted using fresh and firm shiitake mushrooms!
Make This Recipe
Japanese-flavored shiitake mushroom pasta served on a plate.

6. Miso Udon Carbonara

Udon carbonara with shiitake mushrooms.
Easy Miso Udon Carbonara Recipe (Vegetarian)
5 from 2 votes
Looking for a comforting udon noodle dish? Try Miso Udon Carbonara! This delicious fusion of udon noodles and carbonara will leave you asking for more!
Make This Recipe
miso udon carbonara on a plate.

7. Fried Shiitake Mushrooms

fried shiitake mushrooms
Panko-crusted Fried Shiitake Mushrooms
5 from 2 votes
Try these easy and delectable panko-crusted fried shiitake mushrooms! You will enjoy the crispiness and tenderness that will delight your taste buds!
Make This Recipe
Fried shiitake mushroom.

8. Shiitake Mushroom Tempura

Shiitake Mushroom Tempura
The Best Japanese Vegetable Tempura Recipe
5 from 5 votes
If you're looking for an authentic Japanese experience at home, look no further than this easy-to-make Vegetable Tempura recipe! You can make this delicious and crispy Tempura with simple steps without failure!
Make This Recipe
vegetable tempura on a cooling rack.

Where To Buy Shiitake Mushrooms

If you live in the US, shiitake mushrooms are widely available at Japanese grocery stores such as Mitsuwa marketplace, Asian markets, and Whole Foods Market.

However, if you have the chance to visit your local farmers' market, I highly recommend purchasing shiitake mushrooms there! Not only can you support local farmers, but you can also get fresh and delicious mushrooms.

Shiitake mushrooms have a relatively short shelf life, so choosing fresh ones is important.

FAQ

How do you prepare shitake mushrooms?

Gently clean them with a damp paper towel to remove dirt and debris. Remove the stems of shiitake mushrooms with a knife to cut them off, and cut off the base of the stem, which is too tough to eat. Then, you can use the cap and stem for your favorite recipe.

Do you eat raw shiitake mushrooms?

No. It's important to cook fresh shiitake mushrooms before eating them. Consuming them raw can cause allergic reactions and food poisoning symptoms, such as vomiting and diarrhea, in some people.
Therefore, cook them thoroughly to ensure their safety and to bring out their delicious flavor.

Do you have to fully cook shiitake mushrooms?

Yes, it is important to fully cook fresh shiitake mushrooms before consuming them. (See the reason above.)

Do you eat shiitake mushroom stems?

Yes. The stem of shiitake mushrooms, which tends to be discarded, is the most fragrant part. Don't throw it away, as you can eat it.

Should you wash shiitake mushrooms before eating?

No. You don't want to wash shiitake mushrooms as they can easily absorb moisture and lose flavor and aroma.

Thanks For Stopping By!

Sautéed shiitake mushrooms

Thank you for taking the time to read my blog♡ If you've tried this recipe (or any other recipe on the blog), please give it a star rating below!

Also, feel free to leave comments if you have any questions. I love hearing from you!

Chef JA Cooks is a Japanese food blog that shares simple and healthy Japanese home cooking recipes, including vegan and vegetarian. From traditional Japanese recipes to modern recipes with step-by-step instructions.

More Shiitake Mushroom Recipes You Might Like

  • Easy Sauteed Shiitake Mushrooms
  • Creamy Shiitake Mushroom Soup
  • Panko-crusted fried Shiitake Mushrooms
  • Mushroom Miso Soup
  • Shiitake and Kombu Dashi (Vegan Dashi)

📖 Recipe

4 shiitake mushroom recipes

8 Easy Shiitake Mushroom Recipes and A Quick Guide

5 from 3 votes
Print Pin Save Saved!
Prep: 10 minutes minutes
Cook: 10 minutes minutes
Total: 20 minutes minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Author: JURI
This quick guide offers easy shiitake mushroom recipes and how to cook this versatile vegetable. Let's dive in and discover the deliciousness of shiitake mushrooms!
Prevent your screen from going dark

Ingredients
  

  • Shiitake mushrooms

Instructions

  • Pick a recipe from these shiitake mushroom recipes
    Sautéed Shiitake Mushrooms
    Roasted Shiitake Mushrooms with Cheese
    Mushroom Miso Soup
    Creamy Shiitake Mushroom Soup
    Shiitake Mushroom Pasta
    Miso Udon Carbonara
    Fried Shiitake Mushrooms
    Shiitake Mushroom Tempura
  • Follow the recipe instructions and enjoy the delicious dish!

Video

Notes

 
    •  
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Japanese
Keyword: how to cook shiitake mushrooms
Did You Make this recipe?Please Leave a star rating!

More Japanese Vegetable Recipes

  • Kabocha squash soup served in a soup bowl.
    Japanese Kabocha Squash Soup
  • 4 Japanese eggplant dishes.
    9 Easy and Delicious Japanese Eggplant Recipes
  • stir-fried Japanese eggplant served on a plate.
    Stir-fried Japanese Eggplant and Tofu With Miso Paste
  • sauteed Japanese eggplant served on a plate.
    Sauteed Japanese Eggplant With Ponzu Sauce
  • Share
  • Twitter
  • Email

Reader Interactions

Comments

No Comments

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




Primary Sidebar

Juri holding onigiri.

Hi, I'm Juri! As a mom of two with three decades of cooking experience, I'm here to guide you in easy Japanese recipes that maximize flavor with minimal ingredients!

More About Me →

  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Pinterest
  • YouTube

Get My Onigiri eBook!

Onigiri ebook with text.

Popular Recipes

  • onigiri fillings.
    16 Best Onigiri Fillings (Japanese Rice Balls)
  • 米粉と豆乳のパンケーキ
    Fluffy Rice Flour Pancakes (Gluten-Free)
  • Japanese napa cabbage coleslaw
    Japanese Napa Cabbage Coleslaw
  • 6 daikon recipes
    12 Easy Japanese Daikon Radish Recipes
  • potato mochi served with mitarashi glaze.
    Potato Mochi (Delicious Savory Snack)
  • 2 salmon onigiri rice balls on a white plate.
    Salmon Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls)

Kabocha Season!

  • collage of 4 kabocha squash recipes
    13 Easy Japanese Kabocha Squash Recipes To Try
  • Kabocha dango(Japanese pumpkin snack)
    Kabocha Dango
  • kabocha miso soup in a bowl
    Kabocha Miso Soup
  • kabocha tempura
    Crispy & Light Kabocha Tempura Recipe
  • Vegan Kabocha Squash(pumpkin) Muffins
    Vegan Kabocha Squash Muffins
  • Cutting kabocha squash.
    How to Cut Kabocha Squash: A Step-by-Step Guide

Featured In

  • 日本語日本語
  • EnglishEnglish

Footer

^ back to top

About

  • About
  • Contact
  • Privacy Policy
  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Pinterest
  • YouTube

Onigiri eBook

onigiri ebook with text.

Recipes

  • Recipe Index
  • Onigiri Rice Balls
  • Miso Soups
  • Sushi Rolls
  • Natto Recipes

Chef JA Cooks participates in Amazon affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions if you purchase products after clicking an affiliate link. No extra cost to you.

Copyright © 2023 Chef JA Cooks

ACCESSIBILITY STATEMENT

37 shares