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Auricularia auricula-judae

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description Auricularia auricula-judae Overview

*Auricularia auricula-judae*, widely known as wood ear or jelly ear, is an edible basidiomycete fungus characterized by its gelatinous, ear-shaped fruiting bodies. It naturally grows parasitically or saprotrophically on decaying elder trees and other broadleaf hardwoods in humid, temperate regions across the world. The fungus possesses a distinctive chewy, rubbery texture that lacks significant flavor on its own, making it an effective carrier for sauces. It is extensively cultivated and commercially dried for culinary use in East Asian dishes.

help Auricularia auricula-judae FAQ

Why is Auricularia auricula-judae called Judas's ear?

The common name refers to the traditional story that Judas Iscariot hanged himself from an elder tree. The species name auricula-judae literally reflects the idea of Judas's ear.

Where does wood ear fungus grow in the wild?

Auricularia auricula-judae commonly grows on decaying elder and other broadleaf hardwoods in humid conditions. Its gelatinous fruiting bodies can remain attached to wood even after drying.

Can Auricularia auricula-judae be dried and rehydrated?

Yes, wood ear is commonly preserved by drying and then rehydrated before cooking. The fungus becomes flexible and crisp-gelatinous again, which is why it is widely used in soups and stir-fries.

Is Auricularia auricula-judae edible?

It is a widely eaten edible mushroom when correctly identified and properly cooked. Several Auricularia species are sold as wood ear, so a wild specimen should not be identified from appearance alone.

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