dried wood ear mushroom

Dried Wood Ear Mushroom

Dried wood ear mushrooms, also known as black fungus or cloud ear fungus, are a versatile ingredient prized for their unique texture and subtle, earthy flavor. These distinctive mushrooms have a dark brown to black, ear-like shape when dried, and expand dramatically when rehydrated. Often used in Asian cuisine, dried wood ear mushrooms offer a slightly crunchy, almost cartilaginous bite, adding textural interest to various dishes. Their mild flavor allows them to readily absorb the flavors of other ingredients, making them a fantastic addition to soups, stir-fries, and salads. When rehydrated, these mushrooms become pliable and easy to incorporate into your favorite recipes, making them a staple for adding umami and texture.

Common Uses

  • Add to hot and sour soup: Dried wood ear mushrooms are a classic ingredient in hot and sour soup, where they provide a delightful crunch and contribute to the soup's complex flavor profile.- Use in stir-fries for added texture: Rehydrated wood ear mushrooms are excellent in stir-fries, offering a unique textural contrast to other vegetables and proteins.- Include in Asian-inspired salads: Thinly sliced rehydrated wood ear mushrooms can be added to Asian-inspired salads, such as sesame noodle salad or seaweed salad, for a refreshing crunch.- Make vegetarian spring rolls or dumplings: Incorporate chopped wood ear mushrooms into the filling for vegetarian spring rolls or dumplings to enhance the texture and flavor profile.- Add to braised dishes for a subtle earthiness: Wood ear mushrooms can be added to braised dishes like mapo tofu or braised pork belly to impart a subtle earthy flavor and chewy texture.- Cook to make a mushroom salad: Rehydrate the mushrooms and prepare as a salad. This is great as a side dish or appetizer.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

72.0kcal (3.6%)

Protein

3.6g (7.2%)

Carbs

18.5g (6.73%)

Sugars

0.0g

Healthy Fat

0.1g

Unhealthy Fat

0.1g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Health Benefits

  • Rich in dietary fiber, promoting gut health and regularity.
  • Good source of iron, contributing to healthy red blood cell production and energy levels.
  • Contains antioxidants that help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
  • May help lower cholesterol levels, supporting heart health.
  • Low in calories and fat, making it a healthy addition to a balanced diet.
  • Provides essential minerals like selenium, important for immune function.

Storage Tips

Dried wood ear mushrooms should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place. Properly stored, they can last for several months to even a year. Ensure they are completely dry before storing to prevent mold growth. Avoid storing them in areas with high humidity or direct sunlight.

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