How To Soak The Dried Mushrooms

1. Gently rinse the dried shiitake mushroom with cold water which helps get rid of any dirt.
2. Place the dried mushrooms in a bowl with warm water to cover. (Note: You will probably need to place a small plate, lid from a pot, or other item or other item on top of the bowl to keep the mushrooms from floating).
3. Soak the Chinese dried mushrooms in warm water for about 20-30 minutes or until softened. The exact soaking time will depend on the thickness of the caps. The warm water temperature should be the same temperature as your bath water.

 

If you’re in a hurry, soak the dried mushrooms in hot water for 15-30 minutes but I wouldn’t recommend you soak any dried mushrooms in hot water to rehydrate. This is because hot water will damage the flavour of the dried shiitake mushrooms. So after you have softened in hot water you will find the dried shiitake mushrooms aren’t as aroma as they should be.

Cold water is definitely the best way to rehydrate dried shiitake mushrooms as it keeps all the flavours and aromas but only use warm water if you’re in a rush and hot water if you’re desperate.