" Rinse well, and then soak in hot water for at least 30 minutes. The soaking water can be strained and used to add flavor to a stock.
" The more costly are often called "flower mushrooms" as they have a thick cap and a nice curl. These are the best choice if you are preparing stuffed mushrooms.
" However, the cheaper brands are perfectly acceptable for use in soups and stir-fries.
" Before using, soak them in warm water for between twenty and thirty minutes, and remove the stems.
" Be aware that salt releases the water in mushrooms, so judge the salt usage accordingly for your particular recipe.
" The liquid used to reconstitute dried mushrooms makes a flavorful addition to soups, stews, and stocks. Strain the liquid through a double thickness of cheesecloth or a clean, unprinted paper towel before using.
" Mushroom powder can easily be made by grinding dried mushrooms in a spice or coffee grinder, food processor, or heavy-duty blender. Use to flavor soups, stews, stocks, dips, and sauces.
How to store shitake mushrooms, Chinese black mushroom, oak mushrooms
At home, store the shitake mushrooms in a container at room temperature. They will last indefinitely. Paper bags are a good storage alternative. Use fresh shitake mushrooms within three days.
Health benefits of shitake mushrooms, Chinese black mushroom, oak mushrooms
" Shitake Mushrooms are potential cancer-fighters. It contains a compound called lentinan, which is being used as a cancer treatment.
" Shitake Mushrooms are also a good source of riboflavin and niacin and contain no fat or cholesterol.
" Shitake Mushrooms are low in calories, low in fat and have no cholesterol and also low in salt
" It is a good source of minerals, especially potassium and also a good source of vitamins, particularly B vitamins.
" Shitake Mushroom protein is also superior to many other vegetable proteins on account of its essential amino acid content.