Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Gently clean the king oyster mushrooms with a dry brush or a damp cloth, avoiding rinsing them under water to prevent them from absorbing excess moisture.
- Trim the very ends of the mushroom stems and then slice the mushrooms uniformly into approximately 1/4-inch thick rounds or planks to ensure even drying.
- Arrange the sliced mushrooms in a single layer on the trays of your food dehydrator, ensuring there is no overlapping to allow for proper air circulation.
- Lightly mist the arranged mushroom slices with garlic spray, ensuring even coverage without oversaturating them.
- Evenly sprinkle your chosen mixed herbs over the garlic-sprayed mushroom slices.
- Set the food dehydrator to the recommended temperature for mushrooms (typically 125-135°F or 52-57°C) and begin the drying process.
- Dehydrate the mushrooms for approximately 7 to 8 hours, or until they are completely dry, brittle, and snap easily when bent.
- Once dried, turn off the dehydrator and allow the mushrooms to cool completely to room temperature on the trays.
- Transfer the fully cooled and dried king oyster mushrooms into a clean, airtight container or jar for long-term storage in a cool, dark place.
Notes
For optimal dehydration, slice the King Oyster mushrooms uniformly, about 1/4 inch thick, to ensure even drying. Uneven slices can lead to some pieces being too brittle while others remain pliable, increasing the risk of spoilage. Maintain a consistent dehydrator temperature (typically 125-135°F or 52-57°C for mushrooms) and allow sufficient time, around 7-8 hours, until the mushrooms are brittle and snap easily. Ensure they are completely dry before storing in an airtight container to prevent mold. These dehydrated mushrooms offer intense umami; rehydrate them in warm water for 20-30 minutes before adding to soups, stews, or stir-fries.