Scientists studied how three different drying methods affect the flavor of shiitake mushrooms. They found that freeze-drying produces mushrooms with the strongest umami (savory) taste, while hot-air drying creates the most characteristic shiitake mushroom aroma. The study shows that drying changes which flavor compounds are present—fresh mushrooms taste more like typical mushrooms, while dried versions develop unique onion and garlic-like flavors depending on the drying method used.