Dried Hen of the Woods (Maitake) Mushrooms

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.