Mushrooms; Oyster Mushrooms; Shiitake Mushrooms

Mushrooms are fungi that live off decomposing matter. There are many wild edible mushrooms in Southeast Asia that are especially valued by people living in outlying areas. Oyster mushrooms (there are various subspecies, but all are members of the species Pleurotus) are cultivated mushrooms that grow in clumps (on sawdust or rice straw) and are widely available. They have broad flat tops, and the gills underneath extend all the way down the stems. Shiitake mushrooms, Lentinula edodes, grow on wood and have been cultivated for centuries in China and Japan. Shiitakes have an intense flavor and are reported to help lower cholesterol. They are often sold dried and are available in that form in large clear bags in Asian grocery stores. Soak for fifteen minutes to soften before trimming and cooking.