Shiitake Mushrooms
Shiitake mushrooms are identified by their thick round, brown, curled under cap and relatively slender white stalk. A medium size will be 2.5-3” in cap width. Chinese Shiitakes can have “growth cracks” on the cap. This is normal and not considered a defect. Domestic varieties will be thinner overall both on the cap and the stem. Generally, domestic varieties will have a similar flavor profile. The #2 grade is the normal designation for a Chinese variety.

Storage
» Store immediately in the coldest part, of the walk-in cooler. Kitchen heat will cause rapid deterioration of quality.
» Store in the original sealed carton, away from drafts from the cooler fan. Mushrooms are susceptible to dehydration.
» Do not stack heavy objects on top of mushrooms. This could cause crushing damage.
» Do not store in plastic bags.
» Keep mushrooms away from products with a strong odors or ethylene-producing fruit.
» Keep mushrooms and their containers dry during storage.

Handling
» Follow good rotation practices, first shipments received should be used first.
» Handle carefully, do not drop. Mushrooms will bruise easily.
» Expect to rotate mushrooms within 3 days of delivery.
» Avoid placing the case or raw product on non-sanitized kitchen counter tops to help prevent the potential for cross contamination.

Preparation
» Prepare as needed. Try not to use product from the previous day.
» Wash thoroughly in whole form immediately before cutting. Apply a light rinse and drain well. Do not soak.
» Store prepared product in refridgerator.