As history tells us, shiitake mushrooms began their culinary journey at the beginning of the Christian era. In 199, the Japanese Kyusuyu tribe presented the mushroom to Emperor Chuai. Later research has challenged this date, and today it is believed that the cradle of these mushrooms is China, where even older records have been found that document the use of shiitake.

The tradition of Japanese scleroti cultivation, probably originating in the Middle Kingdom, was developed during the reign of the Song Dynasty (960-1127 AD) and is now known almost worldwide. Its culinary and health-promoting properties make it popular in both the largest restaurants and home kitchens.

We decided to collect 6 reasons that will convince everyone to try exotic shiitake mushrooms.

#1

Scientists at Tahoku University in Japan have studied shiitake mushrooms and demonstrated that they lower VLDL and HDL cholesterol levels in the blood. This is extremely valuable information for people struggling with heart disease, thrombosis, and atherosclerosis, especially if they are looking for natural ways to improve their health.

#2

The past few years have brought nothing but revelations for shiitake mushrooms. Although they've been consumed for thousands of years and used in traditional Chinese medicine, they've only recently been added to the pantheon of products known as "superfoods." This means they're proven to be rich in nutrients and have a host of health benefits. They help fight some cancers, boost the immune and nervous systems, and even contribute to strong bones.

#3

An interesting study was conducted at the University of Florida on volunteers who were divided into two groups. One group ate a shiitake mushroom-based diet, while the other group was denied this ingredient. It turned out that people who ate mushrooms had higher immunity after one month. This means that shiitake mushrooms are worth consuming when fighting colds and other infections that plague us during the colder seasons.

#4

Mushrooms are a very valuable source of most B vitamins , iron, and polysaccharides. Shiitake is also rich in fatty acids, which are essential for proper brain function.

#5

Shiitake mushrooms are a great addition to vegan and vegetarian diets. This plant-based product is high in protein and the aforementioned fatty acids, iron, and B vitamins. When buying mushrooms, it's worth reading the label. Check their origin and whether they have an environmental certificate. It's important that the ingredients do not contain fillers or pork gelatin.

#6

Beta-glucans are found in shiitake mushrooms. What does this mean? Beta-glucans keep us full for a longer period of time. This slows down gastric emptying. Beta-glucan is a component of the soluble fraction of dietary fiber and has a sticky quality, and this property increases the time it takes for the contents to reach the small intestine. An additional benefit of beta-glucan is that it suppresses appetite and may support the fight against obesity. This is because beta-glucans can prolong the concentration of cholecystokinin, a hormone of the digestive tract, after a meal.

Shiitake mushrooms have been used for thousands of years and have nothing but beneficial properties. They're also a great product that can spice up any cuisine. They can be freely combined with other culinary worlds. As part of the popular fusion cuisine, you can make a delicious mushroom-based risotto. They're a great addition to pasta and enhance the flavor of soups or fish. And at the same time, they're good for our health.