Dried Oyster Mushrooms

Dried oyster mushrooms are delicate enough in flavor that they are as versatile as they are unique. Their fun trumpet-like shape makes them a favorite of children and foodies alike. You can use them as:

• A soft, slightly earthy addition to stir-fry recipes.
• A beautiful topper for your favorite salad.
• An ideal component of many pasta dishes sprinkled with parmesan cheese.
• A sauté sensation when paired with butter and onion.

These delicate beauties cook quickly. After you have rehydrated them by soaking them in water, pat them dry and get cooking! Dried oyster mushroom recipes often include stir-frying for just a few minutes or adding the mushrooms into the pan or baking dish towards the end of the cooking time.

The Story Behind Oyster Mushrooms

There are different varieties of oyster mushrooms, but they all have something in common: they look like freshly-shucked oysters — hence the name. Oyster mushrooms are also sometimes called trumpet mushrooms, with their fan-like caps growing up to a few inches in diameter. They can be found growing on fallen, decaying trees such as beech and oak trees, and are often cultivated. After they are picked at the peak of perfection, these mushrooms are dried and will range in color from snow gray to pale brown.

Can I Eat the Stems? 

Dried trumpet mushrooms are a great addition to most recipes, but they are better cooked without the stems. Although edible, the stems are tough, and may not add the best texture. Luckily, oyster mushroom stems have enough flavor to be a wonderful addition to a vegetable stock