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Shitake Mushrooms

The shitake mushroom is an edible fungus, native to China and Japan. It is widely used in many east Asian cuisines and has become an increasingly popular delicacy worldwide. (Read more about shitakes on Wikipedia.)

Shitake mushrooms are a good source of riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, copper, selenium, and iron. Additionally, animal studies have found anti-tumor, cholesterol-lowering, and virus-inhibiting effects in compounds in shiitake mushrooms. (Read more about shitakes and cancer research from the American Cancer Society and get your shitake nutrition facts on Self.com.)

Prepackaged mushrooms can be stored, unopened, in the refrigerator for about one week. Once opened, mushrooms should be moved to a paper bag and refrigerated.