How do you reconstitute dried mushrooms?

Question

I have some dried shiitakes, do you use hot water or boiling water? How long do you soak them?

Answer 1

Hot water will do fine.   Don't use broth, dried mushrooms have enough flavor on their own, and the salt will cause them to break down.

You can also use the soaking juice to enhance your recipe.

Answer 2

Water or broth that's just been boiled. Pour it over them and put a plate over the bowl.

1/2 an hour to 45 min. should do it.

Answer 3

Manda is correct.

It doesn't take long( 30 minutes tops) but remember to use the liquid! ( it has as much taste as the actual mushrooms).

We use water only.

Answer 4

I agree with tiny Valkyrie

I usually use enough water (hot) to just cover the 'shrooms and let them sit 30 minutes or so.  This process works well with all dried mushrooms.

With shitakes be sure to remove the stem, it's hard and woody and will never soften.

Also, if you do want to use the soaking water (I highly recommend it) be sure to filter it with a coffee filter or sheet of paper town in a strainer to remove the grit that is just part of using dreid mushrooms.

Try dried Italian Porcini, Morel or Chantrelle mushrooms if you can find them, they have very different flavors that are al deliciously earthy.