Spring Mushroom Primer
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by Alicia Walter (of breadcrumbed.wordpress.com)
Mushrooms add a satisfying depth in taste and texture to many dishes. You can find dried cultivated mushrooms in the grocery store all year. Mushrooms are rich in glutamic acid, the natural version of MSG, and provide a great richness to many savory dishes. But finding fresh mushrooms, either wild or cultivated, is another reason to get excited about spring. 
Below are six different types of mushrooms that you are likely to find on the shelves at your grocery store or nestled in baskets at the farmers market. Each listing includes its botanical name, best method of preparation, taste pairing and how to rehydrate in case you have more luck finding dehydrated mushrooms. A very loose rule is that 1 ounce of dried mushrooms is the same as 8-10 ounces of fresh mushrooms.
Shiitake Lentinula edodes. Only use the caps, stems are tough and discarded. Very versatile mushroom; best cooked. Asparagus, basil, rosemary, sage, spinach, balsamic vinegar. Rehydrate from 2-3 hours to overnight in waterChanterelle Cantharellus cibarius. Have not successfully been cultivated. Only purchase from a trusted source. Best marinated or cooked Garlic, pepper, shallots, thyme. Rehydrate for 20 minutes in water
King Oyster Pleurotus eryngii. Can be eaten raw, great grilled. Leeks, lemon, marjoram, garlic, parsley. Reconstitute for 20-30 minutes in water.
Wood Ear Auricularia polytricha. First mushroom in history to be cultivated. Best cooked by poaching or braising and used in stews or salads. Flavor is not distinct, can be added to any dish for texture. Rehydrate for 20 minutes or overnight in water.
Oyster Pleurotus ostreatus. Have a short shelf life. Can be eaten raw or cooked. Leeks, lemon, marjoram, garlic, parsley.
Reconstitute for 20-30 minutes in water.
Cremini Agaricus bisporus. Also known as baby bellas as they are young portobella mushrooms. Can be eaten raw, steamed, pickled, Have less flavor than portobella caps. Arugula, chives, parsley. Reconsitute for 20-30 minutes in water.
Last Updated (Monday, 11 April 2011 15:05)