— MUSHROOMS
Maitake
Maitake, also known as Hen of the woods, is a mushroom with a wild shape and that is usually gray-brownish in color. The name Maitake comes originally from Japan and literally means ‘dancing mushroom’ which is reflected in its beautiful and unique shape. They have a delicious aromatic taste and fresh scent and are very popular in Japanese cuisine.
Availability maitake
Origin
Maitake mushrooms grow wild at the base of trees, particularly oak trees, and are native to the forests of Japan. A legend goes that these mushrooms were discovered by nuns and lumberjacks and that they danced for joy at finding this new kind of mushroom. Today, 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, that’s when they taste best.
How to eat
Maitake mushrooms must be cleaned before use. This can be a tricky job because the hats of the mushroom are close together and over each other. To clean, use a dry cloth or soft brush Then cut off the stems, leaving the loose hats. 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.
