jews ear

[wizardbiz]

around christmas/ new year i always get out in the woods and collect jews ear fungi (auricularia auricular) they can be found mostly on elder trees, living or dead elder branches. i take them home, soak them in a good bourbon whiskey (you could use any spirit or wine) soak in a jar for 2-3 days take em out and dry them out overnite on a radiator or proper dryer if you have one. this preserves them longterm and the whiskey will give a bland mushroom extra taste. i have em in my pocket dryed as a snack whilst out shooting, fishing, or they can be rehydrated by simmering in water till soft and added to whatever you want to cook. in dried form they can also be crushed to powder form ,add as a flavouring/spice/salad topping. happy hunting. and dont forget if you cant id mushroom 120% leave em where they grow.