Produce Briefs...
Orange Honeydew Melon
Oval-to-round and a delicious cross between a cantaloupe and a honeydew, the very fleshy juicy orangish-yellow pulp of the orange honeydew melon is encased in a hard very yellow matching rind.
White Corn
White corn is a sweet corn variety. Its ears are wrapped in tightly layered pale lime green to white husks. One ear of corn can contain up to 400 kernels growing in rows lengthwise.
Seasons/Availability
Dried maitake mushrooms are typically available year round.
Current Facts
The maitake, meaning dancing mushroom in Japanese, is also known as hen of the woods, kumotake mushroom and sheep's head.
Description/Taste
Dried maitake mushrooms are easy to distinguish versus other dried mushrooms because their fruiting body is made up of clustered leaf-like fronds. Their color varies from pure white to tan to brown depending on how much sunlight they received prior to harvest. Maitake's texture after being reconstituted is succulent and semi-firm. They are fruity, earthy and spicy in flavor and absorb companion flavors readily when cooked.
Nutritional Value
Maitakes have a hypoglycemic effect, essentially making them a natural food source to lower blood sugar. They are also mineral and vitamin rich.
Applications
Dried maitake mushrooms may be used in place of fresh maitake mushrooms. Reconstitute in water or stock and pair with tofu, steamed vegetables, rice or noodles. Combine with other dried, wild mushrooms in sauces or sides. Store dried maitake mushrooms in an airtight container until ready to use.
Geography/History
Maitake mushrooms are native to the mountain forests of Northeastern Japan, where they received the name, phantom mushroom because of their rare presence. Today, maitake mushrooms are cultivated to increase production and availability.
Recipe Ideas
Recipes that include Dried Maitake Mushrooms. One
is easiest, three is harder.| Delicious Asian Food |
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Japanese Tofu with Braised Wood Ear Mushrooms |
