How to Use Dried Abalone Mushrooms

Using dried abalone mushrooms in cooking is not very different than using other kinds of dried mushrooms. Reconstituted dried mushrooms work particularly well in risotto dishes. These mushrooms are rare and might be hard to find. Look for them at an Asian food market, or ask your local grocery stores if they carry them. Once you have tracked them down, reconstituting them and cooking with them is easy.

Things You'll Need

• Dried abalone mushrooms
• 1 1/2 cups water per 1 ounce of mushrooms

Instructions

1. Place the mushrooms in water to reconstitute or re-hydrate them. Use about 1 1/2 cups of water per ounce of mushrooms. If you are using cold water, wait at least 45 minutes. For faster reconstituting, use hot water and soak for just 20 minute. If you have time to spare, however, use cold water, which will allow the mushrooms to retain more flavor.

2. Remove the mushrooms from the water and squeeze excess liquid back into the bowl. Rinse the mushrooms to remove any grit.

3. Chop the mushrooms according to the recipe you are following.

Tips & Warnings

• Store dried mushrooms in the freezer.

• Some recipes call for the soaking liquid to be included in a broth or sauce; check your recipe before pouring it down the drain.

References

• Cooking with Dried Mushrooms
• Abalone Mushrooms Information and Facts