Dried Wood Ear Mushrooms, whole

When immersed in water, the curious-looking wood ear mushroom rapidly expands to many times its dried size. Rehydrated and thinly sliced, this fleshy mushroom is a popular addition to many Oriental dishes. Its unusually firm texture and subtle flavor highlights rice dishes, pasta and light Oriental soups. Wood ear mushrooms may also be steamed or sautéed with other vegetables as a side dish.