The Hen of the Woods mushroom (also known as the maitake) is an annual mushroom which grows in forests in the eastern region of North America. This mushroom grows in a clustered mass. Cooked, it's delicious, with a light, pleasant taste, pungent smell and soft texture. Hen of the Woods mushrooms are white, curly clusters with bluish-black streaks of color.

How to use maitake mushrooms: To reconstitute, place desired amount into a bowl covered with boiling water and let soak for 15-20 minutes and rinse well. Or, add directly to recipe that will cook for at least 25 minutes. One ounce dry reconstitutes to 3-4 ounces.