Wood Ear Mushroom Salad

تحضير المكوّنات

المكوّنات

طريقة التحضير

خطوة بخطوة

1. 1

   Place the dried wood ear mushrooms in a large bowl and cover them completely with warm water. Let them soak for about 30 minutes, or until they are fully rehydrated and soft.

   حوالي 30 د

   ملاحظة الطاهي: Using warm water helps the mushrooms rehydrate faster and more evenly than cold water.

2. 2

   While the mushrooms are soaking, prepare the vegetables by julienning the cucumber and carrot, mincing the garlic, and chopping the cilantro.

   حوالي 10 د

3. 3

   In a small bowl, combine the light soy sauce, Chinese black vinegar, toasted sesame oil, granulated sugar, and optional red chili flakes. Whisk until the sugar is fully dissolved to create the dressing.

   حوالي 2 د

   ملاحظة الطاهي: Make the dressing ahead of time to allow the flavors to meld together.

4. 4

   Drain the rehydrated mushrooms and rinse them well under cold water. Trim off and discard any tough, woody parts, usually found at the base.

   حوالي 3 د

5. 5

   Bring a small pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the cleaned mushrooms and blanch for 2 minutes.

   حوالي 3 د

   ملاحظة الطاهي: Blanching ensures the mushrooms are cooked through and gives them a pleasant, slightly crunchy texture.

6. 6

   Immediately drain the blanched mushrooms and transfer them to a bowl of ice water for one minute to stop the cooking process. Drain them thoroughly.

   حوالي 2 د

   ملاحظة الطاهي: The ice bath is key to keeping the mushrooms' texture firm and chewy.

7. 7

   Tear any larger mushrooms into smaller, bite-sized pieces with your hands.

   حوالي 2 د

   ملاحظة الطاهي: Tearing instead of cutting gives the mushrooms a more rustic texture that holds the dressing well.

8. 8

   In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared mushrooms, julienned carrot, julienned cucumber, minced garlic, and chopped cilantro.

   حوالي 1 د

9. 9

   Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.

   حوالي 1 د

10. 10

    Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for garnish, if using. Serve immediately or chilled.

    حوالي 1 د

    ملاحظة الطاهي: For best flavor, you can let the salad marinate in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before serving.