Step 1

In a medium bowl, add dried mushrooms and boiling water. Let sit until soft and pliable, about 5 to 10 minutes for dried porcini mushrooms and up to 30 minutes for dried shiitake mushrooms.

Step 2

Drain well and finely chop mushrooms or prepare as directed in your recipe. To reserve soaking liquid (delicious for adding even more flavor), strain through a fine-mesh strainer lined with paper towel or a coffee filter to remove any grit.