Preparing Dried Mushrooms

Appears in

By Ken Hom

Published 1981

  • About
Because of lack of refrigeration in China, many ingredients are dried to preserve their flavor so that they can be stored for use any time of year. Most dried ingredients must be soaked in warm water for 20 to 30 minutes to restore them before use. Do not use the soaking water in cooking.
  1. Put the dried mushrooms in a bowl large enough to allow them to double in size as they soak. Pour in boiling water to cover.

  2. When the mushrooms are soft (after about 20 to 30 minutes), lift them from the water, leaving behind any sand and grit that has sunk to the bottom.

  3. Squeeze the mushrooms dry.

  4. Cut off the tough stems and slice, shred, or use the mushrooms whole.