Lantian Shiitake Mushrooms

Lantian Shiitake Mushrooms

　　Also known as fragrant mushrooms, they are one of the mountain delicacies, categorized into flower mushrooms, thick mushrooms, and flat mushrooms, with flower mushrooms being the highest in quality.

　　 These mushrooms are a high-protein, low-fat nutritious food, hailed as a “treasure of the mountains.” According to analysis by the Food Research Institute of Japan’s Central Ministry of Health, every 100 grams of dried shiitake mushrooms contains 13 grams of protein; only 1.7 grams of fat, which is 16 times lower than that of pork. It also contains 61 mg of calcium, 343 mg of phosphorus, and 8.6 mg of iron. Shiitake mushrooms are also quite rich in various vitamins, even more so than tomatoes, carrots, and spinach, which are known for their vitamin content. They contain ergosterol, a substance generally lacking in common vegetables, which can enhance the body’s ability to resist diseases.

　　How to eat: Soak in boiling water for 1–2 hours, remove the stems, and usually use as an ingredient in premium dishes. They can be stewed in soups with chicken, duck, or ham, or stir-fried with bamboo shoots or sliced meat, offering an exceptionally delicious flavor.

　　 Medicinal and tonic effects: They have the functions of “benefiting qi, relieving hunger, treating wind conditions, and breaking up blood stasis,” and are notably effective in treating colds. They promote blood circulation and help reduce cholesterol levels in the blood. They also enhance nervous system function and have certain therapeutic effects on acute transverse myelitis and optic neuritis, along with anti-cancer properties.