Olive Nation Blog

MAITAKE MUSHROOMS ARE BRINGING A NEW DIMENSION TO THE CULINARY SCENE

Posted by John Rusnak in Mushrooms, Nov 22 2009

While upscale and trendy restaurants are utilizing more and more mushrooms to enhance dishes, maitake mushrooms certainly fits into that trend. Their unusual appearance belies the wonderful flavors these jewels add to so many dishes. With its firm and fleshy texture, its aroma is somewhat similar to that of the oyster mushroom. Entirely edible, the flavor is mild and very pleasing. Adding maitake mushrooms to so many dishes, such as soups, stews and especially stir-frys the mushrooms transform even the most ordinary food. You can serve them on their own over rice after sautéing with a little olive oil and garlic. The maitake mushroom also marries very well with steak and chicken. Steamed or roasted vegetables also benefit from their flavor. Maitake mushrooms also pair very well with egg dishes, cream sauces and pasta. To store dried maitake mushrooms, always keep them in a cool, dry place. Even better the refrigerator or freezer works best for storage.