Shiitake mushrooms taste rich, meaty, and buttery when cooked. While you can eat shiitakes raw, their flavor is much more pronounced and developed when they’re cooked.
One of the most commonly available edible mushrooms, shiitakes have rich umami flavor and meaty texture.
So, what does Donko shiitake taste like?
Donko or not, shiitake mushrooms are known for their strong, earthy flavor. They’re packed with umami thanks to the amino acid glutamate. When cooked, shiitake caps have velvety, meaty texture, while the stems can be tough—or pleasantly chewy, if cooked long enough.
How do you prepare shiitake mushrooms for cooking?
To prepare dried shiitake mushrooms for cooking, soak dried mushrooms, gills down, in hot water to rehydrate until tender, about 20 minutes; or soak in room temperature water overnight. Squeeze rehydrated mushrooms to expel excess water. Strain mushroom soaking liquid for a quick vegetable stock.
How long does it take to grow shiitake mushrooms on logs?
After 6-12 months of incubation, shiitake logs will, on occasion, begin to grow mushrooms on their own. Usually, though, growing shiitake mushrooms on logs requires a shock to initiate fruiting. To ensure a strong colony, wait until at least 9 months have passed since inoculation before you start the shocking process.
When to inoculate shiitake logs?
Shiitake canbe inoculated into logs at any time of the year, but the most effectivetimes appear to be in the fall when the leaves are starting to drop (mid-October to mid-November) or in the spring when the sap is rising to produce new leaves (mid-February to early April).
How long does it take for shiitake logs to turn white?
The shiitake logs are set to rest in a shady spot until white mycelium shows at the ends, which usually takes 8 to 14 months. Watering the logs during dry spells helps to keep the mycelium running.
Another answer was plugging your logs must take place zero to two months from the date that the tree was felled, but the sooner the better. Best time of the year to cut is winter into spring when the trees are completely dormant. However, you can inoculate at any time during the winter months.
However, you can inoculate at any time during the winter months. Keep the bark undamaged and as intact as possible. Keep the logs clean and off the ground by stacking on a crate or scraps of wood.