Description

Organic Dried Maitake Mushrooms

Dried organic maitake mushrooms are well known their unique appearance that loosely resembles layers of chicken feathers. This isn’t the only feature that earned the mushroom one of its other names, the hen of the woods, though. When prepared properly, organic maitake mushrooms exhibit a texture and flavor very similar to chicken as well.

Other Names: Hen of the woods, kumotake, dancing mushroom, Grifola frondosa, sheep’s head, champignon dansant, king of mushrooms

Season: Year-round

Origin: Yamhill, Oregon, USA

Shelf Life: Dried organic maitake mushrooms are best when used within one year.

Nutritional Facts: Maitake mushrooms may not have a huge variety of nutrients, but what it does have, it has in numbers. 100 grams of fresh maitake contain 280% of the recommended daily amount* of Vitamin D! This vitamin is very important for those who don’t get enough time in the sun, particularly for those who live in the northern hemisphere. Without it, the body will suffer from weak bones and low immune system and neuromuscular function. Maitake may even aid in fighting cancer and reduce the effects of chemotherapy by enhancing the immune system. It’s important to note that those who are taking medication to lower blood pressure should not eat maitake, as the mushroom may increase the medication’s effect.

Tips: To reconstitute dried maitake mushrooms and use them like fresh maitake, soak in warm water for up to two hours. You can use hen of the woods in the same way you would use chicken- in soups, as a pizza topping, or mixed in with your favorite pasta. You can also batter and deep fry pieces of organic maitake mushrooms to make savory and tender vegan chicken nuggets.

Learn more about maitake here!

*Recommended daily amounts are based on a 2,000 calorie per day diet.