Dried Mushroom

Dried mushrooms are often underestimated and overlooked in the kitchen, but they can pack a punch when handled correctly. Many people get stuck with how to rehydrate them properly, the right soaking time, and which variety to use for different dishes. One of the main issues people stumble upon when cooking with dried mushrooms is rehydrating them. Using hot water to soak and depending on the variety and size of the mushrooms, the soaking time can range from about 15-30 minutes. But remember not to throw away the soaking liquid, because it's loaded with flavor and can be used for cooking. Also, always remember to give a quick rinse to the rehydrated mushrooms to get rid of any potential lingering grit. How to get the most out of the ingredient? It all depends on the type of dish you are preparing. When added to stocks, soups and stews, dried mushrooms create a depth of flavor that’s hard to achieve with fresh ones. Moreover, they're excellent in grain dishes like risotto or pilaf, and can be used to enrich sauces or fillings. Now, a little-known tip: If your recipe calls for mushroom essence or stock, you can quickly make your own at home. Simply soak more dried mushrooms in hot water, and remove the mushrooms once they have rehydrated. The remaining liquid is a quick, homemade, mushroom stock. One more thing to remember, in many cases, the intense flavor of dried mushrooms means that fewer are required in a recipe, compared to the fresh ones.