MAITAKE (Grifola frondosa)
Maitake mushrooms, also known as ‘Hen of the Woods,’ are grey-brown polypore mushrooms. They are found in the wild in parts of Japan, China, and North America growing on the bottom of Oak, Elm, and Maple trees. Maitakes are revered as adaptogens, natural products that assist the body in fighting against various forms of mental or physical disabilities.
Maitake has a unique two-in-one texture. When cooked, the frond side gets crispy, and the white side gets meaty. Its smoky and rich flavor is something to celebrate and doesn’t require too many additional ingredients to cook something delicious.
Flavor Profile: Meaty, savory, dank/herbaceous, smokey, medium-chewy texture
Cooking Methods: Sautéed, roasted, grilled whole, fried, tempura
Fun fact: Maitake means ‘dancing mushroom’ in Japanese because foragers would dance with happiness when finding them in the wild because of their taste and healing properties. Rich in antioxidants, beta-glucans, vitamins B and C, copper, potassium, fiber, minerals, and proteins, they make us want to dance too.
