Description of Wood Ear Mushrooms
Wood Ear mushrooms (Auricularia auricula-judae) are a type of edible fungi that belong to the family Auriculariaceae. They are also known as Cloud Ear, Tree Ear, or Jelly Ear.

Characteristics:
1. Appearance: Wood Ear mushrooms have a distinctive ear-shaped cap that is typically 3-8 cm (1.2-3.1 in) wide. The cap is thin, flexible, and has a smooth, velvety texture.
2. Color: The cap is typically brown to grayish-brown, with a white or yellowish stem.
3. Stem: The stem is typically short and stout, 1-3 cm (0.4-1.2 in) long and 0.5-1 cm (0.2-0.4 in) thick.
4. Flesh: The flesh is thin, tender, and has a crunchy texture.

Medicinal Values
Wood Ear mushrooms have been found to have several medicinal properties:

1. Antioxidant activity: Wood Ear mushrooms contain antioxidants that can help protect against cell damage and oxidative stress.
2. Anti-inflammatory effects: The mushrooms have been found to have anti-inflammatory effects, which may help alleviate symptoms of conditions like arthritis.
3. Immune system support: Wood Ear mushrooms may help stimulate the immune system and increase its response to infection.
4. Antibacterial and antiviral activity: The mushrooms have been found to exhibit antibacterial and antiviral activity, which may help prevent illness.
Health Benefits of Wood Ear Mushrooms
Wood Ear mushrooms may offer several health benefits, including:

1. Immune system support: The mushrooms may help stimulate the immune system and increase its response to infection.
2. Antioxidant activity: The mushrooms contain antioxidants that can help protect against cell damage and oxidative stress.
3. Anti-inflammatory effects: The mushrooms may help alleviate symptoms of conditions like arthritis.
4. Digestive health: The mushrooms may help support digestive health and alleviate symptoms of conditions like IBS.

DARK DRY PLACE

Rehydrating Dried Wood Ear Mushrooms
Rehydrating dried Wood Ear mushrooms is a simple process that helps restore their texture and flavor:

Method 1: Cold Water Soak
1. Measure the mushrooms: Measure out the desired amount of dried mushrooms.
2. Rinse with cold water: Rinse the mushrooms with cold water to remove any impurities.
3. Soak in cold water: Place the mushrooms in a bowl and cover them with cold water. Let them soak for 4-6 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
4. Drain and rinse: Drain the water and rinse the mushrooms with cold water to remove any remaining impurities.

Method 2: Hot Water Soak
1. Measure the mushrooms: Measure out the desired amount of dried mushrooms.
2. Rinse with cold water: Rinse the mushrooms with cold water to remove any impurities.
3. Soak in hot water: Place the mushrooms in a bowl and cover them with hot water (around 90°C/194°F). Let them soak for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
4. Drain and rinse: Drain the water and rinse the mushrooms with cold water to remove any remaining impurities.

Cooking Ideas
Wood Ear mushrooms have a delicate flavor and a crunchy texture, making them a great addition to various dishes:

1. Stir-fries: Stir-fry the mushrooms with your favorite vegetables and serve over rice or noodles.
2. Soups: Add the mushrooms to soups like wonton soup or hot and sour soup.
3. Salads: Toss the mushrooms with your favorite greens, vegetables, and dressing.
4. Vegetarian dishes: Use the mushrooms as a meat substitute in dishes like veggie burgers or portobello mushroom caps.