Enoki Mushrooms

Enoki mushrooms are a distinctive variety of fungi characterized by their long, slender stems and tiny white caps. Originating in East Asia, they have been a staple in traditional Chinese and Japanese cuisine for centuries. These mushrooms offer a mild, slightly sweet flavor with a subtle crunch that becomes tender upon cooking. Their texture is unique, with a satisfying snap when eaten raw and a delicate softness when cooked. Enoki mushrooms are versatile in the kitchen, holding up well in soups and stir-fries without overpowering other ingredients. They tend to absorb the flavors of the dishes they are included in, enhancing the overall taste profile without dominating it.

Notes

When selecting enoki mushrooms, look for bunches that are firm and have a fresh, earthy aroma. Avoid any with slimy or discolored stems. Store them in the refrigerator, ideally in a paper bag to allow for breathability, for up to two weeks. Enoki mushrooms are often sold pre-trimmed and ready to use, making them a convenient choice for quick meals. They are generally well-tolerated but, as with any fungi, should be avoided by those with mushroom allergies.

Uses

Soups and broths
Stir-fries and noodle dishes
Salads for crunch
Skewers with other vegetables
Garnish for hot pots
Sautéed with garlic and soy sauce

Replacements

Shiitake mushrooms, sliced
Button mushrooms, stemmed and halved
Oyster mushrooms, for similar texture
White mushrooms, as a common alternative
Wood ear mushrooms, for a similar crunch

Dill Pickle Spears

Dill pickle spears are slender, crunchy slices cut from cucumbers that have been preserved in a brine infused with dill, garlic, and spices. Originating from European pickling traditions, they are now a staple in American cuisine, particularly popular at ballparks and barbecues. These spears possess a tangy, slightly sour flavor with subtle hints of dill and garlic, offering a refreshing contrast to rich or fatty foods. Their texture is firm and crisp, providing a satisfying crunch that holds up well in various dishes. In cooking, dill pickle spears can add brightness and acidity, balancing out creamy or savory elements in recipes, and they maintain their structure even when briefly heated or incorporated into salads and relishes.

Unflavored Gelatin Sheets

Delicate and translucent, unflavored gelatin sheets are the secret to achieving that perfect wobble in your panna cotta or clarity in your consommés. Each sheet blooms beautifully in cold water, transforming into a wiggly, jelly-like texture that dissolves seamlessly into your mixtures.

Recipes to try

Thai Basil Chicken Lettuce Rice Cups

Zesty, fragrant, and oh-so-satisfying – these rice cups pack a punch of Thai basil and juicy chicken in every bite.

Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Manicotti Bake

Creamy ricotta meets vibrant spinach in tender manicotti shells, all smothered in bubbly marinara and golden bubbly cheese.