"Poku" mushrooms are another name for Shiitake mushrooms, an incredibly rich, earthy fungus heavily featured in Asian cuisine.A 5-pound bulk supply of these mushrooms is typically sold in dried form for restaurant and commercial food service use, as drying intensifies their umami flavor and drastically extends their shelf life. Preparation: They must be reconstituted in warm water for 20 to 30 minutes before cooking. The soaking liquid doubles as a highly flavorful mushroom broth. Texture and Flavor: Known for a dense, meaty bite with a distinctively smoky, savory flavor profile. Common Uses: Ideally suited for large batches of braises, stir-fries, hot pots, ramen broths, and traditional Chinese stews