Ming Tsai on Enoki Mushrooms:   “Besides being the cutest mushroom in the world, enoki mushrooms are also the most versatile, in fact they are just as good raw as they are cooked. Enoki mushrooms are a great ‘starter’ mushroom for those who might not enjoy the woodsy earthy flavor of shiitakes as they have a more subtle, slightly sweet taste.  Although, I will admit that my favorite way to enjoy these mushrooms is fried, tempura style!

cooking for health
Enoki

Enoki Mushrooms

(Flammulina veluptipes)

Other Names:  Golden needle, winter mushroom, velvet foot.  In Japan it is called enokidake.

Origin:  This mushroom was originally cultivated in Japan. Enoki mushrooms are creamy white with long slender stems that are topped with small round caps.  At first glance, they might resemble a bean sprout or perhaps a straightened spaghetti noodle with a tiny mushroom cap.  The wild version of the Enoki grows wild in North America during the fall and winter months. It is found clustered on hardwood stumps, frequently as snow is melting around it. The appearance is entirely different from that of the cultivated form. The caps are 2 to 3 inches broad, yellow to tan in color and sticky to the touch, while the stems are shorter and covered with red-brown velvet

Taste:  These mushrooms offer a crisp bite and a flavor that is sweeter and more delicate than the earthier white button mushroom.  To best utilize the flavors of the enokis, use them fresh in salads or as a garnish to dress up simple mushroom soup. Add to your favorite stir-fry at the last minute, so that that they are merely coated with the sauce. When added to salads and sandwiches, they add a pleasant texture and crunch. 

Where to Find:  Available year round in many US markets, there are three points one should keep in mind when selecting the mushroom: freshness, color and shape. Avoid withered mushrooms as this is a sign of age. They should be shiny but not slimy, and firm, not soft. The base of the clump should be clean and not decomposed.  Specimens which look bright and attractive in the store can be refrigerated, wrapped in paper towels, for 4 to 5 days with little effect. All mushrooms, however, will eventually oxidize and turn dark. Select enokis with firm stems and clean, white coloring.

To Use:  The mushrooms will absorb moisture; therefore it is best to use a lightly damp paper towel to brush off dirt. Before using, cut the lower 1/2 inch or more from the bottom of the stems, which tend to be tough and fibrous.

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