4 oz shiitake mushrooms
4 oz maitake mushrooms
Maitake and shiitake mushrooms are being studied for their anti-cancer, anti-viral and immune boosting properties. The have been used in Japan and China in both folk medicine and modern medicine for these effects. They contain medicinally active polysaccharides and terpenes.
Use the caps of shiitake mushrooms. The stems are fibrous. Some people like the stems, most do not. Use the stems to make a tea by steeping them in hot water. This tea also has medicinal attributes according to eastern medicine.
Heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil in a fry pan. Add some chopped or slivered garlic to taste. Saute the garlic but do not let it brown or burn as it gets bitter. Add the mushrooms whole, chopped on shredded (maitake mushrooms need to be pulled apart into bite-size pieces.
Saute for a minute or so, add salt and pepper to taste.