Black Fungus
Auricularia auricula-judaeClinical Encyclopedia
Black fungus, also known as wood ear mushroom, is a popular edible fungus known for its gelatinous texture and ability to absorb flavors. It is commonly used in Asian cuisine and is valued for its health benefits.
Macronutrient Ratio
Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g
Micronutrient DV% Score
Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value
Complete Micronutrient Breakdown
Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.
Vitamins
Minerals
Health Benefits
Possible Risks & Side Effects
How to Prepare & Consume
Soak dried black fungus in warm water for 30 minutes before cooking. It can be added to soups, stir-fries, or salads for added texture and nutrition.
Smart Selection & Storage
Choose dried black fungus that is whole and free from any signs of mold or discoloration. Fresh black fungus should be firm and have a pleasant aroma.
Store dried black fungus in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Fresh black fungus should be refrigerated and consumed within a few days.
Myths vs Realities
Healthy Recipes
Black Fungus and Quinoa Salad
A refreshing salad combining the earthy flavor of black fungus with protein-packed quinoa and vibrant vegetables for a nutritious meal.
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/2 cup dried black fungus, rehydrated
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, rehydrated black fungus, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and parsley.
- 2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- 3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad, toss gently, and serve chilled.
Stir-Fried Black Fungus with Broccoli
A quick and healthy stir-fry featuring black fungus and broccoli, packed with nutrients and flavor.
- 1 cup black fungus, rehydrated and sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- 1. Heat sesame oil in a pan over medium heat and sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant.
- 2. Add broccoli and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.
- 3. Stir in the black fungus and soy sauce, cooking for an additional 2 minutes. Garnish with sesame seeds before serving.
Black Fungus Soup with Tofu
A comforting and nutritious soup featuring black fungus, tofu, and a savory broth, perfect for a light meal.
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup black fungus, rehydrated
- 1 cup firm tofu, cubed
- 1 carrot, sliced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1. In a pot, bring the vegetable broth to a boil and add the sliced carrot and black fungus.
- 2. After 5 minutes, add the tofu and soy sauce, simmering for another 5 minutes.
- 3. Stir in sesame oil and green onions before serving hot.
Black Fungus and Avocado Toast
A trendy and healthy twist on avocado toast, topped with sautéed black fungus for added flavor and texture.
- 2 slices whole-grain bread
- 1 avocado, mashed
- 1/2 cup black fungus, sautéed
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes for garnish
- 1. Toast the whole-grain bread until golden brown.
- 2. In a bowl, mix the mashed avocado with lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- 3. Spread the avocado mixture on the toast, top with sautéed black fungus, and sprinkle with red pepper flakes.
Black Fungus and Vegetable Spring Rolls
Fresh spring rolls filled with black fungus and colorful vegetables, served with a zesty dipping sauce.
- 10 rice paper wrappers
- 1 cup black fungus, rehydrated and sliced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup lettuce leaves
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1. Prepare the dipping sauce by mixing peanut butter, soy sauce, and lime juice in a bowl.
- 2. Soak rice paper wrappers in warm water until soft, then lay them flat.
- 3. Fill each wrapper with black fungus, carrots, bell peppers, and lettuce, then roll tightly and serve with the dipping sauce.
Black Fungus and Chickpea Curry
A hearty and flavorful curry made with black fungus and chickpeas, perfect for a filling vegetarian meal.
- 1 cup black fungus, rehydrated
- 1 can chickpeas, drained
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 can coconut milk
- Salt to taste
- 1. In a pot, sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
- 2. Add curry powder and cook for 1 minute before adding black fungus and chickpeas.
- 3. Pour in coconut milk, season with salt, and simmer for 15 minutes before serving.
Black Fungus and Spinach Stuffed Bell Peppers
Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a nutritious mixture of black fungus, spinach, and quinoa, baked to perfection.
- 4 bell peppers, halved and seeded
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 cup black fungus, rehydrated and chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- 2. In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa, black fungus, spinach, feta, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- 3. Stuff the bell pepper halves with the mixture and bake for 25-30 minutes until the peppers are tender.
Black Fungus and Lentil Salad
A protein-rich salad combining black fungus and lentils, tossed with a tangy dressing for a satisfying meal.
- 1 cup cooked lentils
- 1/2 cup black fungus, rehydrated and sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. In a large bowl, combine cooked lentils, black fungus, red onion, and parsley.
- 2. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- 3. Pour the dressing over the salad, toss well, and serve chilled.
Black Fungus and Egg Fried Rice
A healthy fried rice dish featuring black fungus and eggs, perfect for using up leftover rice.
- 2 cups cooked brown rice
- 1/2 cup black fungus, rehydrated and chopped
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Green onions for garnish
- 1. Heat sesame oil in a pan and scramble the beaten eggs until cooked, then set aside.
- 2. In the same pan, add black fungus and mixed vegetables, stir-frying for 3-4 minutes.
- 3. Add cooked rice and soy sauce, mixing well, then fold in the scrambled eggs and garnish with green onions before serving.
Black Fungus and Sweet Potato Hash
A hearty breakfast hash made with black fungus and sweet potatoes, offering a nutritious start to your day.
- 1 large sweet potato, diced
- 1 cup black fungus, rehydrated and sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish
- 1. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion until translucent.
- 2. Add diced sweet potato and cook for about 10 minutes until tender.
- 3. Stir in black fungus, season with salt and pepper, and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the health benefits of black fungus?
Black fungus is rich in antioxidants, supports immune health, and aids in digestion due to its high fiber content.
How do you prepare black fungus?
Soak dried black fungus in warm water for about 30 minutes, then rinse and add to your favorite dishes.
Is black fungus safe to eat?
Yes, black fungus is safe for most people, but those with mushroom allergies should avoid it.
Can black fungus help with weight loss?
Yes, its low calorie and high fiber content can help promote satiety and support weight management.
Where can I buy black fungus?
Black fungus can be found in Asian grocery stores, health food stores, and online.
How should black fungus be stored?
Store dried black fungus in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. Once rehydrated, keep it in the refrigerator and consume within a few days.
What dishes can I make with black fungus?
Black fungus is versatile and can be used in soups, stir-fries, salads, and spring rolls.
Does black fungus have any side effects?
When consumed in moderation, black fungus is generally safe, but excessive intake may cause digestive issues.