Shangping Shiitake Mushrooms

Shangping Shiitake Mushrooms

　　 Shiitake mushrooms, also known as fragrant mushrooms or winter mushrooms, are a type of fungus that grows on wood. Thanks to their delicious flavor, pleasant aroma, and rich nutritional value, they rank above straw mushrooms, oyster mushrooms, and white mushrooms, and have long been hailed as the “Queen of Vegetables.”

    Shiitake mushrooms not only have a uniquely fragrant and delicious taste, but also contain a large amount of nutrients beneficial to the human body. Analysis shows that every 100 grams of fresh shiitake mushrooms contains 12–14 grams of protein, far exceeding the protein content of most plant-based foods; 59.3 grams of carbohydrates, 124 milligrams of calcium, 415 milligrams of phosphorus, and 25.3 milligrams of iron. They also contain polysaccharides, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin C, and more. The water-soluble components of dried shiitake mushrooms include histidine, alanine, phenylalanine, leucine, valine, aspartic acid, asparagine, acetamide, choline, adenine, and others. These substances are not only nutritious, but some also help lower blood lipids. In recent years, American scientists have discovered that shiitake mushrooms contain a substance called “beta-glucosidase,” which has a significant effect in enhancing the body’s anti-cancer capabilities. As a result, shiitake mushrooms are referred to as the “new soldier in the fight against cancer.”

    Shiitake mushrooms are not only a renowned dish at the table but have also traditionally been used by the Chinese people as a tonic for longevity. They contain a variety of chemical components that help regulate metabolism, aid digestion, lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol, prevent liver cirrhosis, eliminate gallstones, and help prevent rickets. Not only are they known as the “Queen of Vegetables” both domestically and internationally, but they are also acclaimed as a “healthy food.” Many countries sell them as health foods in pharmacies and supermarkets.

    There are many ways to enjoy shiitake mushrooms—they can be eaten alone or paired with chicken, duck, fish, or meat. They can be stir-fried or braised to create delicious dishes, or boiled and stewed to make tasty soups. There are many famous dishes made with shiitake mushrooms, such as shiitake with winter bamboo shoots, stir-fried shiitake with flowering cabbage, shiitake with sliced meat, shiitake-braised pork ribs, stir-fried shiitake with three shredded ingredients, steamed shiitake meat patties, as well as shiitake chicken claw soup, shiitake tofu soup, and stewed shiitake chicken—all of which are popular dishes in restaurants or banquet menus.