Dried Mushrooms

Today many people are rediscovering their kitchen due to the sluggish economy. Not only is it cheaper to prepare meals at home, going out to eat can become an unnecessary expense. Making your own meals is cost effective and in some cases healthier then eating at a local fast food restaurant.

One way to save money is by using dried mushrooms in recipes instead of fresh. Dried mushrooms are more cost effective because they can be stored for up a year in your pantry. Fresh mushrooms if not used right away, will go bad and have to be thrown out. With dried mushrooms all one has to do to rehydrate them is to soak them in water for about 15 to 20 minutes and they are ready to be added to your favorite recipes.

Online, you can find a large variety of dried mushrooms for sale. Many people find ordering dried mushrooms online more convenient then going to specialty food stores or when one cannot find them at a local grocery store. The other nice thing is that they are delivered right to your home.

One of the specialty mushrooms that are gaining popularity in the culinary world is the dried candy cap mushrooms. These sweet tasting mushrooms are great for baking. Many do not realize that some certain types of mushrooms as the dried candy caps can be used in cakes and muffins. Candy cap mushrooms have a very sweet maple taste that goes great in many baked goods.

Using dried shiitake mushrooms in Asian inspired recipes adds a unique flair and taste. The shiitake mushrooms have a rich earthy taste that enhances soups and stir-fry. Many home cook and chefs like using shiitake mushrooms that are dried because they have a deeper and intense taste when compared to fresh shiitake mushrooms.

Almost all recipes that call for fresh mushrooms dried can always be substituted. Cooks that like minimal preparation when working with mushrooms find that dried do not have to be cleaned like the fresh varieties. If one has cleaned fresh mushrooms before know that it can be somewhat time consuming to make sure that all the dirt is removed first.

No matter what type of dried mushroom is your favorite, many can find what they need online. From sweet to earthy one is sure to find the right dried mushroom for every recipe.

Using Mushroom Powders in a Culinary Application

Mushrooms have been used for centuries in many culinary applications. These tasty little fungi add a distinct flavor and texture to many dishes. Though cooks have used fresh and dried mushrooms in recipes, many do not know that they can also be used in a powdered form. By using mushroom powder in food opens up a whole new avenue to many professional and amateur cooks.

A great way to get acquainted to using mushrooms powder is to substitute it in a recipe for fresh or dried mushrooms. Mushroom spices still have the same flavor but none of the prep work that is involved with fresh or dried mushrooms. They also are made of many popular types of mushrooms. Powders can be found made from chanterelles to porcini mushrooms. This has made mushroom powders very popular among many cooks in the culinary world at large.

One good way to experience a different twist on many old favorite snacks is by adding mushroom powder. Sprinkling mushroom powder on popcorn adds a new taste on an old standard. The flavor of the mushrooms enhances the delicate taste of freshly popped corn and is a great substitute for salt and butter. It can also be sprinkled on potato chips too.

For cooks who enjoy making their own dry rub for meat, adding mushroom seasonings gives an earthy flavor that shines through. Pork, chicken and beef take on a richer flavor when mushroom powder is used in a dry rub. At your next BBQ try adding a dash to a dry rub and see your guests try to guess what your secret ingredient is.

The many uses for mushroom powder are only limited by the imagination of the cook. These types of mushroom powders are wonderful in soups and stews also. The many varieties that are now available can perk up many a spice cabinet even the dried procini mushrooms. With no chopping and cleaning involved make mushroom powders a great convenience for cooks that like little prep work and lots of flavor in simple and easy to prepare dishes.