Enoki aka Velvet Foot (Flammulina velutipes)

Enoki mushroom is a common mushroom in Asian-influenced dishes. It is enjoyed by multiple cultures in stir-fry, soups, salads, and even BBQ'd. Upon first glance in the wild, enoki or "velvet foot" mushrooms look nothing like their cultivated counterparts (fig. 1) found in asian markets and grocery stores. Their crunchy and unique texture adds something different than other mushrooms can offer to any dish.

(fig. 1)

Cooking and preparing enoki is pretty effortless given the way it is cultivated in small bunches. Here is a very quick 5-minute recipe to try using either the wild or cultivated variety:

Teriyaki Enoki Stir-Fry

INGREDIENTS

• 7 oz. Enoki mushrooms

• 1 tablespoon coconut oil

• 1 tablespoon teriyaki sauce

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 teaspoon black sesame seeds

• 1 tablespoon sliced chives

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Cut 1-inch off of the base of the mushrooms. Gently rinse and pat the mushrooms dry.

2. Separate the Enoki into about 6 bundles.

3. Heat the oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and stir frequently, cooking for about 2-3 minutes.

4. Add the teriyaki and soy sauce and cook for 30 seconds longer over low heat. Add more sauces to taste.

5. Serve these flavorful Enoki mushrooms over your favorite rice, add to veggie sushi rolls, or use to top tofu steaks. Optional: Garnish with sesame seeds and chives.

Credit for this recipe goes to "Yummy Mummy Kitchen", compiled here for easier reading.