I found fresh shiitake mushrooms at Winco this week priced below $6 a pound. I love the way the tender, cooked slices look like little handlebar mustaches with scrolled tips.

According to the book “Prescription for Nutritional Healing” by Phyllis A. Balch, CNC,  the Chinese fungus has the ability to boost our immune systems and has antiviral properties that may be helpful in relieving bronchitis. An interesting article at elements4health.com explains how the mushrooms can also help to reduce cholesterol levels and provide other health benefits.

In this bowl I see delicate beauty combined with good nutrition.

Fresh Shiitake Mushroom Soup

Check out this simple method for making soup in the coffeemaker.