Shiitake

Key features of shiitake mushrooms

1. Appearance: Shiitake mushrooms have a distinctive, brown, umbrella-shaped cap that is typically 5 to 10 cm in diameter. The cap is attached to a pale, cylindrical stalk that is 1 to 2 inches long.
2. Flavor: Shiitake mushrooms have a rich, savory flavor that is often described as "meaty". They are widely used in soups, stews, sauces, and stir-fries and are a popular ingredient in vegetarian and vegan dishes. The trunks don't taste as good as with other mushrooms. 
3. Nutritional content: Shiitake mushrooms are a good source of nutrients, including protein, fiber, vitamins B and D, and minerals like iron and potassium. They are also rich in antioxidants, which have been shown to have numerous health benefits.
4. Cultivation: Shiitake mushrooms can be grown on a variety of substrates, including logs, sawdust, and straw. They are typically grown in a controlled environment, such as a greenhouse or a mushroom farm, and are often grown on a commercial scale.
5. Health benefits: Shiitake mushrooms have been shown to have a number of health benefits, including boosting the immune system, reducing inflammation, and improving heart health.

Shiitake at Beyond Buckthorns

We have been growing mushrooms at Beyond Buckthorns for a long time. We started with Shiitake on logs using a slit cut technique, later tried dowels. We then went back for slit cut as it requires on step less in the cultivation process. 

Since 2022 we also have shiitake on sawdust raised beds. 

We used different strains of Shiitake. Personally I prefer one from Germany over the one sold by Helsieni.