Reconstitute

The process of rehydrating dried foods by placing the food in water or some other liquid, in order to bring them back to a resemblance of their original size, shape and texture. Foods are dried in order to preserve them for longer periods of time. Then they can be reconstituted for use when necessary for preparing various food dishes. Mushrooms are a commonly dried food that are reconstituted so they can provide a larger and more succulent textured ingredient when added to a food being prepared. They will not have the flavor nor texture of the original mushroom, but the water in which they are reconstituted can be used as a mushroom broth to provide a rich flavor that will significantly enhance the flavors and taste of other foods, sauces, soups, and chowders. For reconstituting dried mushrooms place the mushrooms in hot water for 20 to 30 minutes. Remove the mushrooms and strain the water to remove any particles that may have come from the mushrooms. The liquid can then be saved or used immediately for the desired recipes.