Beech Mushrooms (Hypsizygus tessellatus)

Beech mushrooms, also known as Shimeji mushrooms, are small, elegant mushrooms with long, slender stems and petite, dome-shaped caps. They come in two main varieties: brown (Buna Shimeji) and white (Bunapi Shimeji). Native to East Asia and commonly found growing on beech trees—hence their name—they are prized for their mild, nutty flavor and delightfully firm texture, which holds up well when cooked.

Unlike some mushrooms, beech mushrooms should be cooked before eating to bring out their flavor and improve digestibility. They are perfect in stir-fries, soups, pasta, risottos, and as a gourmet topping.