How to Rehydrate Dried Mushrooms
Wild mushrooms are a flavorful addition to many dishes. However, sometimes those mushrooms aren't available or are out of season. Dried mushrooms, although pricey, can be an alternative to unavailable fresh wild mushrooms. An ounce or so of dried mushrooms added to fresh domestic mushrooms can add the right amount of flavor without breaking the bank.
Rehydration is also the time to add some additional depth and flavor by using something such as Cognac, port, red or white wine. You can also use chicken or vegetable stock. Anything you soak the mushrooms in will leave behind a bit of its flavor.
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Things You'll Need
- Red or white wine, port or Cognac, or chicken or vegetable stock
- Colander
- Bowl
Instructions
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1
Sort through the mushrooms, looking carefully for any foreign objects, twigs or anything not a mushroom.
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2
Rinse well under cold water in a colander. Remove any grit, dust or growing medium that may be on the mushrooms. Pay particular attention to the gills underneath the caps.
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3
Soak the mushrooms for up to six hours in the liquid of your choice. Place the bowl with the mushrooms and soaking liquid in the refrigerator. You may need to put a plate or saucer on top of the mushrooms to keep them under the liquid, as they may float.
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Tips & Warnings
Strain the soaking liquid through a coffee filter if it has any grit or dirt that's settled to the bottom of the bowl. Use this liquid for soups and stews. It too contains flavors from the mushrooms and can add richness to your recipe.
Avoid hot liquids for soaking. Hot or boiling liquids cause the mushrooms to turn bitter.
You can strain the soaking liquid through a coffee filter if it has any grit or dirt that's settled to the bottom of the bowl and incorporate that into soups and stews. It too contains flavors from the mushrooms and can add richness to your recipe.
References
- Photo Credit Photos.com/Photos.com/Getty Images
