Nutritional Value of Shiitake Mushrooms
Shiitake mushrooms are a great source of dietary fiber and Vitamin B, while being low in calories. They are commonly used as a food ingredient and are also known for their medicinal properties in traditional Chinese medicine.
In just 15g of dried shiitake mushrooms, you’ll find:
Calories: 44
Carbohydrates: 11g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 1g
Vitamins B5, B6, and D
Active compounds: Riboflavin, Niacin, Copper, Selenium, Manganese, and Folate
They also contain a host of other compounds such as polysaccharides, terpenoids, sterols, lipids, and amino acids.
Soaking Shiitake Mushrooms: Hot or Cold Water?
If you’re wondering whether to soak shiitake mushrooms in hot or cold water, the ideal temperature is warm water. Water that is slightly below 70 degrees Celsius is perfect for evenly rehydrating the mushrooms while retaining their natural aroma and nutrients. Avoid soaking them for too long, ideally no more than 2 hours, to prevent the mushrooms from becoming mushy and losing their flavor. Proper soaking will enhance the appeal and nutritional value of your dishes.
Tip for Quick and Even Mushroom Soaking
For plump and tender shiitake mushrooms that are ready for your culinary creations, try this soaking method:
Ingredients:
Dried shiitake mushrooms
White sugar
Warm water (around 70 degrees Celsius)
Instructions:
Clean the mushrooms by rinsing them under running water to remove any dirt or impurities from the surface.
Create a soaking solution by mixing warm water and a small amount of white sugar in a clean bowl, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved.
Soak the mushrooms: Place the shiitake mushrooms in the warm sugary water and gently squeeze and rub them to absorb the liquid. After about 3-5 minutes, you’ll notice the mushrooms starting to plump up evenly.
Rinse: Once the mushrooms have softened, remove them from the soaking liquid and rinse them with cold water to stop the soaking process.
This method will give you tender and flavorful shiitake mushrooms that are ready to be used in your favorite recipes!