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.

Chefadora AI is here.

Experience smarter, stress-free cooking.

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.

Background Squiggy
Chefadora App

Get cooking with the Chefadora App.

Available now for early access users.

Download on the App StoreDownload on the App Store
chefadora
© 2025 Chefadora Pty Ltd, All Rights Reserved

Marnirni-apinthi Building, Lot Fourteen,
North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Australia