How to rehydrate and cook wild mushrooms from Quebec

Wild mushrooms from Quebec, such as morels, chanterelles, and porcini, offer a wealth of flavors and textures that can transform your dishes. When dried, their shelf life increases, making them perfect for year-round use. Discover how to rehydrate them and incorporate them into your recipes!

Why use dried mushrooms?

Drying is a traditional preservation method that intensifies the aromas of mushrooms. Dried mushrooms are lightweight, easy to store, and can be kept for months without losing their flavor. Furthermore, they are an excellent source of nutrients, including vitamins B and D, minerals, and antioxidants.

How to rehydrate dried mushrooms

Rehydration is an essential step to restore mushrooms to their original texture and release their flavors. Here's how to do it:

Basic method

1. Place the mushrooms in a bowl. Use approximately 15 to 30 g of dried mushrooms for 4 servings.
2. Add hot water. Cover the mushrooms with hot (not boiling) water and let them soak for 20 to 30 minutes.
3. Drain and reserve the liquid. Strain the soaking liquid through a fine-mesh sieve or coffee filter to remove impurities. This liquid is rich in flavor and can be used in your recipes.

For even more flavor
Rehydrate the mushrooms in an aromatic liquid:
White wine for morels, chicken stock for chanterelles, dark beer for porcini mushrooms, or milk for a softer texture. These variations will add an extra dimension to your dishes.

Recipe ideas using rehydrated mushrooms

1. Wild mushroom risotto

In your classic risotto recipe, use the mushroom soaking liquid to cook the Arborio rice for a more intense flavor. Add the rehydrated mushrooms at the end of cooking.

2. Mushroom sauce

Sauté shallots in butter, add the rehydrated mushrooms, deglaze with the strained soaking liquid, then stir in cream for a smooth sauce, perfect with pasta or meat.

3. Forest Soup

Combine rehydrated mushrooms with seasonal vegetables and broth for a rich and flavorful soup. The soaking liquid can also be used as the base for your broth.

4. Mushroom Omelette

Incorporate finely chopped rehydrated mushrooms into your beaten eggs for a delicious and flavorful omelet.

Why use dried mushrooms?

Dried wild mushrooms are an excellent way to add depth and complexity to your dishes. Properly rehydrated and used in well-chosen recipes, they can become an essential ingredient for flavoring your meals.

Don't hesitate to experiment with different varieties and cooking methods to discover all the possibilities offered by these treasures of the Quebec forest.

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For high-quality dried wild mushrooms, choose local and specialized suppliers. Trail Boréale offers a selection of mushrooms sustainably harvested in Quebec forests.