POUND FRESH SHIITAKE MUSHROOMS, STEMMED, CAPS THINLY SLICED

Heath D. (Q&A ID 5385)

In the Udon Noodles with Shiitake Mushrooms and Spinach recipe, it asks for a full pound of shiitakes, stemmed and caps sliced thin. Is this a pound of shiitake and then stem and slice or a pound of caps after stem and slice? Am I getting rid of the stems and only using the caps I assume? I always wonder how to read this in recipes.

thank you.

Lynn C. (Q&A ID 662)

Hi Heath - For this recipe you will need a pound of shiitakes, which is the weight before stemming. Shiitake mushroom stems are very fibrous and not very pleasant to eat. However, don't throw them away! They are a great source of umami - just throw a handful in to flavor soups or stews and then strain out before serving. You can freeze them and use directly from the freezer. Best, Lynn C.

Heath D. (Q&A ID 5385)

Thank you!