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If you’re a fan of mukbang videos or ASMR content, you must be curious about enoki mushrooms. These pale slender mushrooms featuring long, thin stems and small caps are some of the most widely consumed mushrooms in South Asian and are a staple in mukbang videos where content creators consume a large amlunt of food. Enoki mushrooms have a delicate, skinny noodle-like texture which when sauced properly makes a slurping noise, making them popular for ASMR content.
From soups and stir-fries to salads and sushi, enoki mushrooms add a unique touch of umami and visual appeal to a wide range of recipes. Most supermarkets and organic markets now sell raw, fresh enoki mushrooms. When selecting fresh enoki mushrooms, look for firm, plump stems and clean, white caps. 
Avoid mushrooms that appear slimy, discoloured, or have a strong odour, as these may indicate spoilage or poor quality. Ideally, purchase enoki mushrooms that are still attached to their substrate, as this helps retain freshness and prolongs shelf life. Here are some other ways to prep this mushroom for cooking.
Try the hot and cold veggie rinse
While enoki mushrooms are relatively clean compared to other mushroom varieties, it's still important to rinse and clean them before use. However, unlike more robust mushrooms that can withstand thorough washing, enoki mushrooms require a more delicate approach to prevent damage to their delicate structure.
To clean Enoki mushrooms, start by trimming off any discoloured or woody portions from the base of the cluster using a sharp knife or kitchen shears. Then, gently separate the mushrooms from the cluster, taking care not to break or bruise the delicate stems.
Next, place the separated mushrooms in a colander or mesh strainer and rinse them under cold running water. Swirl the mushrooms gently with your fingers to remove any dirt or debris clinging to the stems. Avoid soaking enoki mushrooms in water, as they can quickly become waterlogged and lose their crisp texture.
After rinsing, pat the mushrooms dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen cloth to remove excess moisture. Be sure to handle them gently to avoid crushing or bruising the delicate stems.
Tailor Enoki Mushrooms to Your Recipe
Depending on the recipe you're preparing, you may need to trim or slice the enoki mushrooms before cooking. While enoki mushrooms are often used whole in dishes such as salads or hot pots, they can also be sliced or chopped to suit different culinary applications.
To trim enoki mushrooms for cooking, start by placing the cluster on a cutting board and using a sharp knife to trim off any remaining woody ends from the base. Then, depending on your preference, you can either leave the mushrooms whole or slice them into smaller segments.
For stir-fries or sautés, consider cutting the enoki mushrooms into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and distribution of flavor. Alternatively, if using enoki mushrooms as a garnish or topping, leaving them whole can showcase their elegant appearance and delicate texture.
Maximizing Flavor and Texture
Enoki mushrooms are incredibly versatile and can be cooked using a variety of techniques. You can stir-fry it by heating a small amount of oil in a wok or skillet over high heat. Add the trimmed enoki mushrooms and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned and tender. Season with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, or other aromatics for added flavour.
For sautéing, heat butter or olive oil in a sauté pan over medium heat. Add the cleaned and trimmed enoki mushrooms and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and tender. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs for a simple yet flavorful side dish.
Enoki mushrooms make a delicious addition to soups, stews, and hot pots. Simply add cleaned and trimmed mushrooms to the simmering broth or soup base and cook for a few minutes until tender. Their delicate flavour and texture complement a wide range of soup recipes, from miso to chicken noodles.
Some condiments work better
To further enhance the flavour and versatility of enoki mushrooms, consider experimenting with different seasonings, sauces, and cooking techniques. Marinate enoki mushrooms in a mixture of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil before stir-frying for an Asian-inspired twist. Toss enoki mushrooms with balsamic glaze, olive oil, and fresh herbs before roasting for a savoury side dish.
