Jelly ear, dried

Description: Edible mushroom. Jelly ear, or Auricularia auricula-judae, is a common edible mushroom that is typically found on elderberry. Being a Chinese mushroom or black mushroom, it is a typical ingredient in Asian cuisine. It has been used as a medicinal mushroom since ancient times. It is known to be high in minerals such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, silicon, sodium, phosphorus, fibre, protein and sugars. It has anti-oxidant properties.

Positive effects of jelly ear:

• anti-inflammatory
• blood purification, reduction of blood pressure
• strengthens the immunity system
• positively affects the function of the internal organs
• helps in treating indigestion
• booster in the case of physical and mental exhaustion
• good in treating hemorrhoids
• improves the quality of skin, hair and nails

Use: When dried, the mushroom is nearly totally black; it can absorb large quantities of water. During cooking it increases in size. In addition to its culinary use, dried jelly ear is used to prepare medicinal tea. The consumption of this mushroom is discouraged during pregnancy and breastfeeding. On the other hand, it is beneficial to mothers shortly after childbirth. It can also be used in goulashes, risottos or vegetable salads.

Country of origin: China, Vietnam