Shiitake

Personality: Shiitake (Lentinula edodes) features umbrella-shaped brown caps and a rich, savory umami flavor. It’s a beloved staple in Asian cuisine.

Benefits: Supports immune health, may help lower cholesterol, and is rich in B vitamins and antioxidants.

Prepare: Cut off “scab” where mushroom was plucked. Rinse before consuming. Remove stems if tough. Slice caps.

Serve: So tender! You can sauté, roast, or add directly to soups and stir-fries. Marissa’s favorite is to sauté with soy sauce and ginger, then serve over rice or add to a miso soup for a classic, savory dish.