Definition: Although wood ear is often confused with cloud ear fungus, it is actually a distant cousin - the scientific name is Auricularia Polytricha. Larger and somewhat tougher, this fungus lacks the delicate taste and flavor of cloud ears. Nonetheless, it is used in soups and stir-fries as it soaks up the flavors of the food it is cooked with. Chinese herbalists also believe that preparations made with wood fungus can help improve blood flow and circulation.
Store wood ears in an airtight container. Before using, soak the fungus in warm or cold water for 20 to 30 minutes to soften. Rinse and trim the stem where it was attached to the wood of the tree. Use wood ears in recipes such as Hot and Sour Soup or Mu Shu Pork.
Written by Rhonda Parkinson
Store wood ears in an airtight container. Before using, soak the fungus in warm or cold water for 20 to 30 minutes to soften. Rinse and trim the stem where it was attached to the wood of the tree. Use wood ears in recipes such as Hot and Sour Soup or Mu Shu Pork.
Written by Rhonda Parkinson
Also Known As: Black Fungus, Tree Ears, Jelly Mushroom, black fungus mushroom
Examples:
Recipes Using Wood Ear:Hot and Sour Soup
Mu Shu or Muxi Pork
(Either Wood Ear or Cloud Ear can be used in both of these recipes).
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