Michael Davis
Dried shiitake mushrooms are a staple in Asian cooking, adding a unique umami taste to soups, stocks, stir-fries, and braises. They are chewy, silky, and meatier than fresh mushrooms. You can purchase dried shiitake mushrooms at Asian grocery stores and online, but they can be expensive, so it may be more cost-effective to dry them yourself at home. This can be done by air-drying fresh mushrooms in a well-ventilated area for 7-10 days or by partially dehydrating them in the oven and then allowing them to air dry. Once dried, shiitake mushrooms can be stored in airtight containers for up to two years and rehydrated in hot water before use.
Drying Shiitake Mushrooms
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Equipment | No special equipment needed, but a dehydrator, oven, or mesh colander can be used |
| Mushroom Condition | Fresh, not past their prime |
| Preparation | Wipe with a damp towel, do not wash under running water |
| Container | Mesh colander or a baking rack set on a baking sheet |
| Ventilation | Well-ventilated area, preferably with sun |
| Air Drying Time | 7-10 days or until they don't give when squeezed |
| Oven Drying Time | 2-3 hours |
| Storage | Airtight container, cool dry place, up to 2 years |
| Rehydration | Soak in cold or warm water for 20-30 minutes |
| Rehydration Liquid | Can be used in place of chicken broth or as a sauce base |
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What You'll Learn
- Cleaning the mushrooms: wipe them with a damp cloth, don't wash them
- Air drying: place in a container with good airflow and leave for 7-10 days
- Oven drying: brush clean, cut into slices, and place in a low oven with the door slightly open
- Storing: dried shiitake can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 years
- Rehydrating: soak in water for 20-30 minutes, then cook as desired
Cleaning the mushrooms: wipe them with a damp cloth, don't wash them
When preparing fresh shiitake mushrooms for drying, it's important to clean them properly. Unlike other vegetables, mushrooms should not be washed under running water. Instead, use a damp cloth to gently wipe each mushroom, removing any dirt or debris. This method ensures that the mushrooms are cleaned without becoming waterlogged.
Washing mushrooms can affect their texture and accelerate spoilage. Mushrooms are like sponges and will absorb water when submerged. This can make them slimy and difficult to dry effectively. By wiping them with a damp cloth, you can control the amount of moisture they are exposed to and avoid over-saturation.
Additionally, the damp cloth method helps maintain the integrity of the mushroom's delicate structure. Mushrooms have a porous surface, and vigorous washing can damage their caps and gills, compromising their quality. A gentle wipe ensures that the mushrooms remain intact, preserving their appearance and texture.
It is important to start with fresh mushrooms when preparing to dry them. Avoid using mushrooms that are past their prime, as they may not dry properly or develop undesirable flavours during the drying process. Select firm, plump mushrooms with no signs of spoilage for the best results.
Once the mushrooms have been carefully wiped and cleaned, they are ready for the drying process. You can choose to air-dry them or use an oven for faster results. Either way, ensuring they are properly cleaned and prepared beforehand is essential for preserving their quality and extending their shelf life.
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Air drying: place in a container with good airflow and leave for 7-10 days
Drying shiitake mushrooms at home is a simple process that requires minimal work and no special equipment. To start, you'll need fresh shiitake mushrooms, which should be cleaned with a lightly dampened towel—avoid washing them under running water. You can also cut off the stems and brush off any dust and dirt.
Once your mushrooms are prepared, it's time to begin the drying process. Place the mushrooms in a container that allows air to circulate, such as a mesh colander or a baking rack set on a baking sheet. Make sure the mushrooms are not overcrowded and that they have good airflow.
The next step is to find a suitable location for your mushrooms to dry. Choose a well-ventilated area with a supply of fresh air, and preferably some sunlight. Place your container of mushrooms in this spot and leave them to dry for 7-10 days. The drying time may vary depending on humidity levels and the size of your mushrooms, so it's important to check on them periodically.
After 7-10 days, your shiitake mushrooms should be completely dry and ready for storage. You'll know they're done when they don't give at all when squeezed and feel like little rocks. Store your dried mushrooms in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, and they will last for up to 2 years!
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Oven drying: brush clean, cut into slices, and place in a low oven with the door slightly open
Drying shiitake mushrooms in the oven is a great way to preserve them for later use. To start, you'll need fresh shiitake mushrooms. Wipe them clean with a damp towel—don't wash them under running water. Next, cut the stems and brush off any remaining dust or dirt. You can then cut the mushrooms into slices, about 1/4-inch thick.
Preheat your oven to 170°F, using the convection function if possible. Arrange the mushroom slices on a drying screen or a baking rack placed on top of a baking sheet. Make sure the mushrooms aren't overcrowded and leave some space between them to allow for air circulation.
Now, place the mushrooms in the oven and prop the door open slightly with a wooden spoon or similar object. This step is crucial to allow the moisture to escape. Dehydrate the mushrooms at this low temperature for 2 to 3 hours, or until they are dry and leathery.
Once they're done, remove the mushrooms from the oven and let them cool to room temperature. Store your homemade dried shiitake mushrooms in an airtight jar or container. They will keep well for up to a year and can be rehydrated in warm water whenever you're ready to use them in your favorite recipes.
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Storing: dried shiitake can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 years
Dried shiitake mushrooms can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 years. Glass containers are a great option for storage, and silica gel packets can be added to the container to help absorb any excess moisture. It is best to store dried shiitake in a cool, dry place, such as a pantry or cupboard. If you are concerned about humidity, you can also store the dried mushrooms in the refrigerator or freezer.
The longevity of dried shiitake mushrooms is due to the low moisture content, which inhibits the growth of microorganisms. The drying process removes water from the mushrooms, preventing the growth of bacteria, mould, and yeast. By storing the dried shiitake in an airtight container, you further protect them from reabsorbing moisture and extending their shelf life.
When storing dried shiitake mushrooms, it is important to ensure they are completely dry before placing them in the container. The drying process typically takes about a week, but it can vary depending on the humidity levels and the size of the mushrooms. You can tell if the mushrooms are fully dried if they feel like little rocks and do not give when squeezed.
Storing dried shiitake mushrooms in an airtight container in a cool, dry place will ensure they retain their intense flavour and texture for up to 2 years. This makes it a convenient ingredient to have on hand for adding a savoury umami taste to soups, stocks, and stir-fries.
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Rehydrating: soak in water for 20-30 minutes, then cook as desired
To rehydrate dried shiitake mushrooms, start by gently rinsing them with cold water. Place the mushrooms in a bowl and cover them with warm water—the temperature should be similar to bath water. If the mushrooms are sliced, they will take less time to rehydrate, but they will also be less flavourful than dried whole mushrooms. Place a small plate or lid on top of the bowl to prevent the mushrooms from floating. Soak the mushrooms for 20 to 30 minutes, or until softened. Thicker caps will take longer to rehydrate.
If you are short on time, you can soak the dried mushrooms in hot water for 15 to 30 minutes. However, this will affect their flavour and aroma. The cold water method is the best way to rehydrate dried shiitake mushrooms as it helps them retain their flavour.
Once the mushrooms have softened, remove them from the water and squeeze out any excess liquid with your hands. Trim off and discard the tough stems, and the caps are now ready to cook as desired. The mushroom-flavoured soaking liquid can be used to enhance the flavour of soups, sauces, or stir-fries.
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Frequently asked questions
You can dry shiitake mushrooms by air drying them or using an oven. To air dry, place the mushrooms in a container that allows air to circulate, such as a mesh colander. Leave them in a well-ventilated area for 7-10 days. To dry them in an oven, preheat the oven to 170°F, brush the mushrooms clean, and cut them into 1/4-inch slices. Arrange the mushrooms on drying screens and place them in the oven with the door slightly open to vent steam. Dehydrate for 2 to 3 hours.
Store dried shiitake mushrooms in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. They can last for up to 2 years.
To rehydrate dried shiitake mushrooms, soak them in cold or warm water for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the caps are tender. If you're in a hurry, you can use hot water, but this will affect the mushrooms' flavor. The soaking liquid can be used as a substitute for chicken broth or in sauces.
