Most people tend to quickly rinse fresh shiitake mushrooms with plain water. However, according to our chef, washing shiitake mushrooms with just water is akin to consuming them covered in dust and insect eggs. There is a crucial extra step to effectively clean these mushrooms, and our chef is here to share this technique.
Preparation:
– Fresh shiitake mushrooms
– Salt
– Flour
Instructions:
First, prepare a basin or a large bowl. Add two spoons of salt and three spoons of flour, stirring well. Then, soak the shiitake mushrooms in this mixture for about 15-20 minutes. Salt helps eliminate insects and bacteria, while flour has strong absorbent properties, capable of attracting and removing dirt and insect eggs lurking in the mushrooms.
Place a dish over the mushrooms, ensuring it covers the entire surface area. This step ensures the mushrooms are fully immersed in the water.
After 20 minutes, remove the mushrooms and discard the water. You will notice a significant amount of residue at the bottom of the basin.
Once the mushrooms have been soaked, give them a final rinse under warm water. The warm water will help bring out the mushrooms’ distinctive aroma. Your shiitake mushrooms are now ready for cooking!
In conclusion, when it comes to cleaning shiitake mushrooms, simply rinsing them with water is insufficient. To ensure thorough cleaning and remove dust and insect eggs, it is best to soak them in a mixture of salt and flour. These ingredients not only disinfect but also effectively eliminate dirt and insect eggs.
Good luck, and happy cooking!