How to Cook Dried Porcini Mushrooms?

With its fine aroma and firm flesh, the porcini mushroom is a real delicacy for many. Since the season for fresh specimens only lasts a few months, it makes sense to build up a preserved stock. Freezing, pickling, and drying are the methods of choice. The dry method can be easily implemented in various ways. The expert explains in detail how to dry mushrooms. If you want to prepare the dried mushrooms, there is also not much to consider.

Properly prepare dried porcini mushrooms

The whole secret is in the soaking. Put the chopped dried mushrooms in warm water for at least 20 minutes, and rinse dirty specimens thoroughly beforehand – otherwise, you may grind your teeth. If necessary, use a cutting sample to check whether the mushrooms are soft. The longer the soaking time, the more aroma is transferred into the water. That’s why you shouldn’t throw it away, but use it for cooking. For example, you can use it to prepare a stock or add it directly to dishes such as porcini mushroom soup together with the soft mushrooms. If you want to speed up the preparation of the dried porcini mushrooms, you can also grind the mushrooms and cook them directly without soaking.

Cooking with dried porcini mushrooms

Attention, if you soak dried porcini mushrooms, 25 grams corresponds to about 250 grams of fresh mushrooms! You should definitely keep this in mind if you want to prepare recipes with dried mushrooms instead of fresh ones. Always let the mushrooms and the soaking water in the food of your choice simmer for at least 15 minutes to ensure that any germs and spores that are present are killed. Ragouts, risottos, sauces, and soups are the domain of noble mushrooms. For example, try a pasta recipe with dried porcini mushrooms or use them to prepare the mushroom sauce for a roast. Since the shelf life of dried porcini mushrooms are several years when stored in an airtight, dry place, you can create many delicious dishes with a 500-gram supply!