Coral mushroom has many popular names: gelatinous, silver ear, ice, royal, trembling, snowy. All these are alternative names, and the real (scientific) sounds like "fuchsoid tremella" (tremella fuciformis).
The coral fungus was first described by Englishman Joseph Berkeley back in 1856. However, the Asian world learned about it much earlier. Local herbalists sold white coral fungus as a miracle cure for colds. It was also an excellent tonic. The transliteration of Chinese characters leads to another interesting name: "snow tree ear", and in the Japanese version - "tree white jellyfish".
Coral mushroom is quite nutritious. It contains about 70% dietary fiber, 18 amino acids, vitamins, carbohydrates, proteins, minerals, vegetable glycogens. For many centuries, the coral fungus has been used by the Chinese in the treatment of tuberculosis, colds, and hypertension.
Recent studies by Ukrainian and Israeli scientists have confirmed that fuchsoid tremella is capable ofincrease immunity, protect against radiation, strengthen the respiratory system, improve hematopoiesis, lower cholesterol. Moreover, coral fungus has anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory properties. It prevents the development of tumors and neurological damage, protects the liver from the action of toxins, has a positive effect on the brain, and improves memory.
The huge value of the fungus lies in the presence of glycogens (special polysaccharides), which are prescribed by doctors for immunodeficiency, severe stress, premature aging. The combination of nutritional properties makes it ideal for smokers.
Due to the content of natural vitamin D, coral (white) mushrooms rejuvenate the skin, speed up metabolism, increase blood flow in the cells of the skin. Important: Tremella fuchsus is strictly contraindicated in those patients who are taking (or have just finished taking) anticoagulants. Coral fungus has practically no independent taste. The popularity of tremella is due to its crispy, elastic, but at the same time delicate texture. Many soups, salads and even desserts are prepared from it. Powdered coral fungus is added to drinks and ice cream.
The Chinese way of preparing one of the sweet dishes based on this mushroom is very interesting: tremella is boiled, then dried and soaked in sweet peach syrup.
Dried "silver ear" needs additional processing. First, the product is pouredwarm water for a couple of hours, until swelling (increases ten times), then washed and, after draining excess water, is divided into small inflorescences (harsh areas are removed). After that, you can start cooking. Once the coral fungus was so rare that only very rich people could afford it. Now tremella is grown on an industrial scale and is quite affordable for the average buyer. You can see it in most Asian grocery stores.
Coral fungus is stored in the refrigerator, in tightly closed airtight containers.
