Learn how to cook dried mushrooms, a powerhouse ingredient packed with savory, meaty taste. Soak the dried mushrooms until rehydrated, then add to soups, stews, and sauces for plant-based umami flavor.
In a medium bowl, add dried mushrooms and boiling water. Let sit until soft and pliable, about 5 to 10 minutes for dried porcini mushrooms and up to 30 minutes for dried shiitake mushrooms.
Drain well and finely chop mushrooms or prepare as directed in your recipe. To reserve soaking liquid (delicious for adding even more flavor), strain through a fine-mesh strainer lined with paper towel or a coffee filter to remove any grit.
Notes
Mushrooms: This method works with many dried mushrooms such as porcini or shiitake (but soak times may vary).
Water: To infuse even more flavor into your dried mushrooms, soak in chicken broth, beef broth, or vegetable stock.
Yield: 1 1/2 ounces of dried mushrooms is equivalent to 8 ounces of fresh mushrooms.
Storage: Dried mushrooms may last up to 3 years in the pantry (read the package to check with your particular brand).