Product Review

Like the Cloud Ear Black Fungus, the Wood Ear mushroom is eaten for medicinal purposes and for texture more than flavor. It's called the Wood Ear because when it grows out of trees and dead wood it has the appearance that the wood is growing many little ears. As such, it is believed in Eastern medicine that the mushroom is excellent for improving hearing (as well as good for circulation).

The mushroom has a cartilaginous, crunchy texture that's rather unique. (You'll definitely hear it when you chew it. Maybe that's how it fixes your hearing?) It also adds textural appeal to soups and stir-fries. The flavor is a bit mild, sweet, and somewhat earthy.

The Wood Ear seems to act like a sponge for spices, herbs, sauces, and vinegars. Each piece you eat is a crunchy, frilly flavor bomb. Due to this we think the Wood Ear pairs wonderfully with sour dishes with lots of vinegar and a heavy hand of chili peppers.