— MUSHROOMS
Maitake
Maitake is a mushroom with a lush shape that is usually gray-brownish in color. The name Maitake is Japanese and literally means ‘dancing mushroom’, which is reflected in its beautiful and unique shape. They have a wonderful aromatic taste and fresh smell and are very popular in Japanese cuisine.
Availability maitake
Origin
Maitake mushrooms grow wild at the base of trees, especially oak trees, and are native to the forests of Japan. Legends say these mushrooms were discovered by nuns and woodcutters and that they danced with joy upon finding this new species of mushroom. Nowadays, maitake mushrooms can be found in several places, including Europe, the United States and China.
CHINA
How to store
Maitake mushrooms can be stored in the refrigerator for several days. Use them as fresh as possible.
How to eat
Maitake mushrooms must be cleaned before use. This can be a difficult job because the mushroom caps are close together and on top of each other. Use a dry cloth or soft brush for cleaning. Then cut off the stems, leaving the loose caps. The Maitake mushrooms can be prepared in several ways. They are delicious stir-fried with garlic and served with meat or fish, but they also taste good in a soup or risotto.
