Wood Ear Mushroom

What Is Wood Ear Mushroom?

Wood ear mushroom (Auricularia auricula-judae) is a mushroom that grows on tree trunks and is recognized by its ear-like shape and dark brown-to-black color. It is widely used in Asian cuisines and is also called black fungus.

It has a gelatinous yet crunchy texture and retains a slight crunch even after cooking. It is usually sold dried and expands in layers after soaking in warm water before use.

Wood Ear Mushroom Nutrition Facts

Like other mushrooms, fresh wood ear mushroom contains approximately 25 kcal per 100 g; it is fat-free and rich in fiber. Verified USDA data specific to this species are limited, so the values are approximate and based on a similar mushroom profile.

What Are the Benefits of Wood Ear Mushroom?

With its low calorie content, lack of fat, and fiber, wood ear mushroom can be a light part of a balanced diet.

This is general information; wood ear mushroom is a food and is not a substitute for medical treatment.

How to Choose Wood Ear Mushroom

Dried wood ear mushrooms should be whole, clean, brittle, and dry; avoid specimens that are damp or have an unpleasant odor. Fresh ones should be glossy and flexible, with a clean smell.

• Dried mushrooms should be clean, whole, and thoroughly dried
• Fresh ones should be flexible and glossy, with a clean smell
• Avoid mushrooms that are moldy or damp

How to Store Wood Ear Mushroom

Store dried wood ear mushrooms in a sealed container in a cool, dry place; they keep for a very long time. Fresh or rehydrated mushrooms should be eaten within a few days when refrigerated.

How to Use Wood Ear Mushroom in the Kitchen

Wood ear mushroom is most often used for its crunchy texture in Asian stir-fries, soups, and noodle dishes; slice it into thin strips and cook it briefly. Its mild flavor readily takes on the flavor of sauces.

How to Rehydrate Dried Wood Ear Mushrooms

Soak dried mushrooms in warm water for 20–30 minutes; once they have expanded in layers to several times their original volume, rinse them thoroughly, cut away the tough central part, and slice them.

How to Cook Wood Ear Mushroom

Slice the rehydrated mushrooms into strips and sauté them briefly over high heat or add them to soup; avoid overcooking to preserve their crunch.

What Recipes Use Wood Ear Mushroom?

Vegetable and mushroom stir-fry, hot and sour soup, noodle dishes, and mushroom salads are among the best-known uses.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does wood ear mushroom taste like?

It has an almost neutral flavor on its own; its main appeal is its crunchy texture, and it takes on the flavor of the dish it is added to.

Can wood ear mushroom be eaten raw?

It is generally rehydrated in water and cooked, even if only briefly; eating it raw is not recommended.

How much does dried wood ear mushroom expand?

It expands to several times its original volume when soaked in water; a small amount of dried mushroom therefore yields quite a lot.

In which cuisines is wood ear mushroom used?

It is widely used in Chinese, Korean, and Southeast Asian cuisines in stir-fries, soups, and noodle dishes.