Introduction: Wood ear mushrooms have a delicate texture and a delicious taste, and what's more, they are exceptionally nutritious. They not only enhance the flavor of dishes but also help prevent anemia, nourish the blood, improve complexion, ward off illness, and extend lifespan. They can also boost the human immune system, and regular consumption may even help prevent cancer.
However, if cooked improperly, the nutritional value of wood ear mushrooms can be significantly lost. The most significant functional component in wood ear mushrooms is wood ear polysaccharide. It is beneficial for lowering blood lipids, lowering blood sugar, and preventing blood clots, and it also has anti-radiation and anti-ulcer effects. However, wood ear polysaccharide is highly sensitive to temperature and can be destroyed by prolonged cooking.
Stir-fried Wood Ear Mushrooms
Therefore, the best way to preserve the full nutritional value of wood ear mushrooms is to eat them raw. To prepare, simply soak the mushrooms in cold water until they are rehydrated, then toss them with seasonings for a salad. Additionally, it's best not to soak the mushrooms for more than 2 hours to minimize the loss of nutrients that dissolve into the water. After soaking, rinse them thoroughly with clean water several times.
Hot and Sour Wood Ear Mushrooms
If you are not accustomed to eating them raw, you can quickly blanch the rehydrated mushrooms in boiling water before tossing them. Here is a recommended simple and nutritious home-style dish: Cold-dressed Wood Ear Mushrooms. Instructions: Shred the carrots. Clean the rehydrated wood ear mushrooms, remove the stems, and tear them into small pieces. Place the mushrooms and carrot shreds in a bowl, add minced garlic, chopped green onions, salt, sugar, chicken powder, and a small amount of aged vinegar, and mix well. Finally, sprinkle with white sesame seeds and drizzle with a few drops of sesame oil.
Lily Bulb and Wood Ear Mushroom Stir-fry