These earthy brown mushrooms have a strong umami flavour, with a spongey, dense texture. They're a meaty addition to many a meal, a strong component in their own right, they can be added to hearty dishes to beef them up.

Shiitake have a great collection of B vitamins including niacin, B6 and riboflavin. Along with other edible fungi, shiitake have a great collection of phytonutrients associated with anti-cancer properties and improved immune system function.