Kung Pao Shiitake

Kung Pao Shiitake is a flavorful, plant-based take on the classic Sichuan dish, substituting meat with hearty, umami-rich shiitake mushrooms. It typically features dried or fresh shiitake mushrooms stir-fried with peanuts, dried chili peppers, and Sichuan peppercorns in a savory, slightly sweet, and spicy sauce. The dish originates from Sichuan province in China, known for its bold and complex flavors.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This dish is generally moderate in carbohydrates from the sauce and peanuts, with a good amount of plant-based protein from the mushrooms and nuts. It provides key nutrients like B vitamins, selenium, and antioxidants from the shiitakes, along with healthy fats from the peanuts. A typical serving might range from 300 to 450 calories, depending on oil and sugar usage.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	280 kcal
Protein	10 g
Carbs	22 g
Fat	18 g
Fiber	4 g
Sugar	6 g
Sodium	850 mg
Potassium	420 mg
Iron	2.5 mg
Vitamin B6	0.3 mg
Niacin (B3)	4.5 mg
Copper	0.4 mg
Selenium	15 mcg
Vitamin D	1.2 mcg
Manganese	0.8 mg

Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, it's a creative vegetarian adaptation that honors the traditional 'kung pao' flavor profile while highlighting the versatility of mushrooms in Chinese cuisine. Nutritionally, shiitake mushrooms are a standout ingredient, containing compounds like lentinan which are studied for their potential immune-supporting properties.