Morel mushroom (dried)

羊肚菌

strengthens the spleeneases indigestionsupports the kidneys益腸胃

The dried morel (Morchella), its honeycomb-pitted cap resembling a lamb's tripe, which gives it its Chinese name. Rehydrated, split and rinsed free of grit, it releases an intense woodsy, almost smoky umami into the broth — one of the priciest mushrooms in the soup pot, and one that must always be cooked right through.

TCM properties

Nature · neutral　Flavour · sweet　Meridians · spleen、stomach

Traditional food therapy

In Cantonese food therapy morel is used to strengthen the spleen, aid digestion and support the kidneys and gut — a food-therapy attribution rather than a classical materia medica entry.

Cautions — read first

Must be cooked right through (the raw mushroom carries a trace of toxin).
Not for anyone allergic to mushrooms.

Preparation

After soaking, cut them open and rinse the grit out of the folds; the soaking water can be used once it has settled.

Origin

雲南、四川高山野生傳統；現以四川人工栽培為大宗 — AU supply is specialist retail only (Wellsoon, Fortune) at premium prices

Availability in Australia

Herbal shops / specialists · A$60–118 / 100g
Wellsoon Morchella 100g $59.99; Fortune Dry Morels 50g $59.00

Pairs well with

Dried Chinese yam Cordyceps flower (cultivated)Dried conch / sea snail head

Soups that use this ingredient · 1

Double-boiled pork shin with daikon, bamboo fungus and morelsA$17–23

白蘿蔔竹笙羊肚菌燉豬展

moistens the lungseases indigestionrelieves dryness3h slow fireAutumnWinter

街市White radish / daikon· 1百子櫃Morel mushroom (dried)· 10百子櫃Bamboo fungus· 8街市Pork shin (shank)· 1 piece

“The pot she makes when someone needs looking after.”