Slowly becoming one of the most popular mushroom varieties, the shitake is easily recognised by the dark brown colouring and the flatness of the cap. Once sliced from top to bottom you will notice the distinctive curl of the rim and the contrast in colours from the dark brown of the skin to the creamy beige colour of the centre. Used largely in stirfries, they can also be added to risottos and are very tasty when used to make soups. Can be purchased fresh or dried and found in Asian grocery stores being sold as black mushrooms.