Dried Wood Ear Mushrooms · Culinary Mushroom · 100g

Wood Ear mushrooms (Auricularia auricula-judae) are unlike most of the mushrooms you will see in a supermarket. They do not have neat caps or tidy stems. Instead, they grow in ear-like folds along tree trunks, dark and velvety in colour. You might also hear them called Mu Er, Jelly Ear, Black Fungus, or even Cloud Ear. Whatever the name, they are known for one thing above all else: texture.

When cooked, Wood Ear mushrooms have a springy crunch that soaks up sauces, spices, and broths beautifully. They do not dominate with flavour. Instead, they add depth and bite to dishes. That is why they have been a staple in Chinese kitchens for centuries, often turning up in soups, hotpots, or quick stir-fries.

The variety we have chosen comes from north-eastern China. It is thin and tender and often stir-fried with eggs, but it is versatile enough to work in almost any recipe. Our tip? Give them a quick rinse rather than a long soak, they will keep that lovely texture and absorb seasoning better.

Why people choose Wood Ear Mushrooms

Part of traditional cooking

Wood Ear has a long history in East Asian food culture, where it is often linked with nourishment and balance. It is less about bold taste and more about how it rounds out a meal with crunch and body.

A natural source of nutrients

Dried functional mushrooms are naturally low in fat and calories but carry fibre, B vitamins, iron, and trace minerals like selenium and copper. They have often been included in everyday meals as a simple way to add substance and variety.

Good for the gut

Because of their fibre content, Wood Ear mushrooms are a common choice in diets that emphasise digestion and balance. In traditional soups and stews, they are seen as gentle on the stomach and filling without being heavy.

Light but satisfying

Wood Ear mushrooms bulk out a dish without weighing it down. They bring texture, chew, and a subtle depth of flavour, making them perfect for anyone exploring lighter, plant-based cooking.

Why choose Wood Ear from Mycology?

At Mycology Nutrition, we believe mushrooms should be left as nature intended. Our Wood Ear is grown and harvested in regions where it has been cultivated for generations. We do not use sulphur treatments, which are sometimes added to brighten appearance or extend shelf life. Instead, the mushrooms are dried and packed in a way that preserves their natural look, texture, and taste.

We have built close relationships with growers, allowing us to source mushrooms at the right stage of growth and process them carefully for quality. The result is a clean, authentic product, ready to be rinsed, cooked, and enjoyed in your favourite dishes.

How to cook with Dried Wood Ear

1. Rinse under cold water to remove any natural residue.
2. Slice or leave whole, depending on your dish.
3. Add to soups, stews, or stir-fries, they will soak up sauces and seasonings beautifully.

Because Wood Ear is subtle in flavour, it is best paired with garlic, soy, chilli, or ginger. It takes on those flavours and carries them with every bite.

Pack size: 100g

Explore our full range of dried functional mushrooms, or discover our mushroom coffee collection if you want to try functional mushrooms in a different way.

FAQ

How are Wood Ear mushrooms used?

They are most often added to soups, hotpots, and stir-fries. Their crunch makes them a great contrast to softer vegetables or noodles.

Are Wood Ear mushrooms healthy?

They are naturally low in calories and a source of fibre, B vitamins, and minerals. That is why they have been part of traditional diets for generations.

Are they vegan-friendly?

Yes, 100% plant-based, with no additives or preservatives. A perfect addition to vegan and vegetarian meals.

Do I need to soak them?

Not really. A quick rinse will do. Unlike some dried mushrooms, they do not need long rehydration.

Where do they come from?

Our Wood Ear mushrooms are sourced from north-eastern China, an area known for producing thin, tender Mu Er of excellent quality.

Important: These are food supplements, not medicines, and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Enjoy as part of a varied, balanced diet. If you have a medical condition, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or take medication, speak to your GP before use.