When it comes to exploring the world of mushrooms, few varieties are as versatile and flavorful as wood ear mushrooms. With their delicate texture and earthy flavor, these mushrooms can elevate a wide range of dishes from simple stir-fries to hearty soups. In this article, we’ll delve into 18 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the best of wood ear mushrooms’ culinary potential.
From classic Chinese stir-fries to spicy salads and comforting soups, each recipe has been carefully selected to demonstrate the versatility of these underrated mushrooms. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes are sure to inspire your next meal. So, let’s get cooking and discover the many wonders of wood ear mushrooms!
Wood Ear Mushroom Stir-Fry with Garlic and Ginger
This flavorful stir-fry combines the earthy sweetness of wood ear mushrooms with the pungency of garlic and ginger, making it a perfect vegetarian option for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried wood ear mushrooms
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Reconstitute the wood ear mushrooms by soaking them in hot water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and cut into thin strips.
2. In a wok or large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and ginger; stir-fry until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Add the wood ear mushrooms to the wok; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until they start to soften.
4. Add the soy sauce; stir-fry for an additional minute, or until the mushrooms are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Wood Ear Mushroom Salad with Sesame Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the earthy flavor of wood ear mushrooms with a spicy kick and a nutty sesame dressing. Perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a unique side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wood ear mushrooms, rehydrated and sliced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons tahini
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, Gochujang, and red pepper flakes.
2. Add sliced mushrooms and minced garlic; toss to coat.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil and tahini until smooth.
4. Pour dressing over mushroom mixture; toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Wood Ear Mushroom and Chicken Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of tender chicken, savory wood ear mushrooms, and aromatic vegetables. A comforting and nourishing dish that’s easy to make and delicious to eat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (wood ear, cremini, shiitake)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add the mushrooms, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot.
5. Return the chicken to the pot and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup is hot and the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Braised Wood Ear Mushrooms with Soy Sauce and Garlic
This recipe showcases the rich flavor of wood ear mushrooms, enhanced by a savory braising liquid infused with soy sauce, garlic, and aromatic spices. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, this dish is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wood ear mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 1 star anise, whole
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, soy sauce, and star anise; stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Add the mushrooms; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until they start to release their liquid.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the liquid has reduced slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Wood Ear Mushroom and Tofu Stir-Fry
Experience the unique earthy flavor of wood ear mushrooms paired with tender tofu and savory soy sauce in this quick and easy stir-fry recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wood ear mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
– 1/2 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
4. Add the sliced wood ear mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Return the tofu to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions (if desired) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Wood Ear Mushroom and Cucumber Salad
This light and crisp salad combines the earthy flavor of wood ear mushrooms with the coolness of cucumber, perfect for a hot summer day. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a refreshing and healthy snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried wood ear mushrooms, rehydrated in water
– 2 cups sliced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine rehydrated wood ear mushrooms, sliced cucumber, and chopped cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the mushroom mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Wood Ear Mushroom and Pork Dumplings
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of wood ear mushrooms with the savory taste of pork, wrapped in a delicate dumpling wrapper. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as an appetizer for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 cup ground pork
– 1/4 cup finely chopped wood ear mushrooms
– 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground pork, chopped wood ear mushrooms, scallions, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place a small spoonful of the pork mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dampen the edges of the wrapper with water. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point.
4. Press the edges together to seal the dumpling. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Cook dumplings in boiling water for 5-7 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Wood Ear Mushroom and Egg Drop Soup
This comforting soup combines the earthy flavor of wood ear mushrooms with the silky texture of egg drops, making it a perfect dish for any time of the year. With its rich and savory broth, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups wood ear mushrooms, rehydrated and sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute.
2. Add the sliced mushrooms and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Stir in the beaten eggs until they form thin strands.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Wood Ear Mushroom and Shrimp Stir-Fry
A savory and flavorful Asian-inspired dish that combines the earthy taste of wood ear mushrooms with succulent shrimp. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an impressive entree for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wood ear mushrooms, rehydrated and sliced
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add the sliced wood ear mushrooms and cook until they start to soften, about 2 minutes.
5. Pour in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry everything together for an additional minute.
6. Return the shrimp to the pan and stir-fry until coated with the mushroom sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Wood Ear Mushroom and Beef Noodle Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup, featuring the unique texture of wood ear mushrooms and tender beef. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef brisket or chuck, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups wood ear mushrooms, rehydrated and drained
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 8 oz noodles (such as udon or soba)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the beef strips over medium-high heat until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the mushrooms, carrots, celery, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the beef is tender.
5. Cook noodles according to package instructions and add to the soup.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Wood Ear Mushroom and Vegetable Hot Pot
A hearty and flavorful hot pot that combines the earthy taste of wood ear mushrooms with a variety of colorful vegetables. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a crowd-pleasing gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried wood ear mushrooms, rehydrated in water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 small carrot, peeled and grated
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as baby corn, snow peas, and mushrooms)
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add red bell pepper and carrot; cook for 2 minutes.
4. Add rehydrated wood ear mushrooms, mixed vegetables, broth, and soy sauce.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Wood Ear Mushroom and Scallion Pancakes
These savory pancakes are a delightful combination of earthy wood ear mushrooms and crunchy scallions, perfect for a quick snack or side dish. With just a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful and aromatic treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wood ear mushrooms, rehydrated and sliced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Add the sliced mushrooms, chopped scallions, and beaten egg to the dry mixture. Mix until just combined.
3. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
4. Using a ladle, scoop the pancake batter into the hot oil. Flatten slightly with a spatula.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain pancakes on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: About 10 minutes per batch (depending on the number of pancakes).
Wood Ear Mushroom and Chicken Congee
This hearty congee recipe combines the earthy flavor of wood ear mushrooms with tender chicken, making for a comforting and nourishing meal perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried wood ear mushrooms, rehydrated
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, ginger, and mushrooms; cook until the mushrooms are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Pour in broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the congee has thickened slightly.
4. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Wood Ear Mushroom and Spinach Stir-Fry
This quick and flavorful stir-fry is a great way to enjoy the unique texture and earthy flavor of wood ear mushrooms. Pair them with spinach, garlic, and ginger for a nutritious and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wood ear mushrooms, rehydrated and sliced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook for 2-3 minutes, until they start to soften.
3. Add the garlic and ginger; cook for another minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the spinach leaves and stir-fry until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Wood Ear Mushroom and Chili Oil Noodles
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of wood ear mushrooms with the spicy kick of chili oil, all wrapped up in a springy noodle dish. Perfect for a quick and flavorful meal or as a side to your favorite stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz noodles (preferably thin wheat noodles)
– 1 cup wood ear mushrooms, sliced
– 2 tbsp chili oil
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a pan, heat 1 tbsp of chili oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced wood ear mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir well to combine.
4. Combine cooked noodles with mushroom mixture. Toss to coat evenly.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
6. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Wood Ear Mushroom and Pork Belly Stew
This hearty stew combines the earthy flavors of wood ear mushrooms with the rich, unctuous texture of pork belly. Perfect for a chilly evening, this comforting dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups wood ear mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add pork belly and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove pork from pot and set aside. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms to pot and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in chicken broth, water, soy sauce, and sugar. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
5. Add pork belly back to the pot and cook for an additional 30 minutes, or until tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Wood Ear Mushroom and Cabbage Stir-Fry
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines the earthy taste of wood ear mushrooms with the crunch of cabbage, perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wood ear mushrooms, rehydrated and sliced
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and swirl it around. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the shredded cabbage and stir-fry until it’s slightly wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and sesame oil. Pour the mixture over the mushroom and cabbage mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Wood Ear Mushroom and Rice Paper Rolls
Experience the delicate flavors of Asia with this simple recipe that combines crunchy wood ear mushrooms with soft rice paper rolls.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wood ear mushrooms, rehydrated and sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., shredded carrots, bean sprouts, chopped cilantro)
– 1/4 cup cooked and cooled jasmine rice
– 8-10 rice paper wrappers
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the filling by combining mushrooms, mixed vegetables, and jasmine rice in a bowl.
2. In a small pan, heat soy sauce and sesame oil over medium heat until well combined.
3. Brush the edges of each rice paper wrapper with the soy sauce mixture.
4. Place about 1/2 cup of the filling in the center of each wrapper.
5. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a tight cylinder.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your cooking game with these 18 savory wood ear mushroom recipes! From stir-fries to soups, salads to dumplings, and more, this collection has something for every occasion. Try the Wood Ear Mushroom Stir-Fry with Garlic and Ginger, Spicy Wood Ear Mushroom Salad with Sesame Dressing, or Braised Wood Ear Mushrooms with Soy Sauce and Garlic. Or, explore other options like Wood Ear Mushroom and Chicken Soup, Wood Ear Mushroom and Tofu Stir-Fry, or Wood Ear Mushroom and Pork Belly Stew. Whatever your taste buds desire, this article has a recipe to satisfy!
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