Do You Weigh Shiitake Mushrooms Before or After Stemming

Question

In the Udon Noodles with Shiitake Mushrooms and Spinach recipe, it asks for a full pound of shiitakes, stemmed and caps sliced thin. Is this a pound of shiitake and then stem and slice or a pound of caps after stem and slice? Am I getting rid of the stems and only using the caps I assume? I always wonder how to read this in recipes.
thank you.

Lynn Clark · Accepted Answer

Hi Heath - For this recipe you will need a pound of shiitakes, which is the weight before stemming. Shiitake mushroom stems are very fibrous and not very pleasant to eat. However, don't throw them away! They are a great source of umami  - just throw a handful in to flavor soups or stews and then strain out before serving. You can freeze them and use directly from the freezer. Best, Lynn C.

Do You Weigh Shiitake Mushrooms Before or After Stemming

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