The Maitake Mushroom

A large produce company, Basciani Foods has been family owned for five generations. It is primarily known for its mushroom products, which it grows from its headquarters in the unofficial mushroom capital of the world, Avondale, Pennsylvania. One of the mushroom variates sold by Basciani Foods is the maitake.

A clustered mushroom, the maitake has fan-like fronds that resemble a feathery hen tail. Its feathery appearance has earned it the nickname “hen of the woods.”

The delicate texture of the maitake is paired with a savory, earthy, slightly spicy flavor. This mushroom is particularly high in protein polysaccharides and vitamin D, both of which have a beneficial effect on the immune system. The maitake can also prove helpful in diabetes management and improve the health of bones and the circulatory system.

Ancient samurai warriors considered the maitake sacred. Convinced that eating maitakes made them unbeatable in battle, samurai would legendarily trade the mushrooms for their weight in silver.