Snow Mushroom (银耳 yín ěr) — Tremella fuciformis

Snow mushroom, also called white fungus or silver ear mushroom, comes from the fungus Tremella fuciformis. It has been used in Chinese cuisine and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for centuries. It grows on decaying wood in warm, humid regions and has a soft, jelly-like, ruffled appearance that looks like white coral. When dried, it becomes hard and shriveled, but after soaking in water, it expands into a tender, gelatinous texture. It has a very mild taste, which makes it a versatile ingredient that is perfect for sweet soups and desserts.

Snow mushroom contains polysaccharides, especially tremella polysaccharides, which are known for their hydrating, immune-supporting, and antioxidant properties. In TCM, it is considered a yin-nourishing food-herb, meaning it helps moisten dryness in the body, especially the lungs and skin. It is traditionally used to support fluid balance, soothe dry coughs, improve skin complexion, and strengthen the body after illness.

The fruiting body, which is the fungus itself, is the part used. It is usually sold dried and must be soaked before cooking.

Traditionally, snow mushroom is used to:

• Moisten the lungs (to help with dry throats or coughing)

• Hydrate the skin and support a glowing complexion

• Support immune function

• Restore body fluids

• Promote gentle digestion and overall vitality

Recipes

• 梨枣银耳羹 (Lí Zǎo Yín’ěr Gēng) Pear & Goji Yin’er Soup:

Simmer dried snow mushroom in water for 20–30 minutes until soft. Add red dates, rock sugar, pears, and goji berries into the soup, and continue slow cooking until the mushrooms become gelatinous. Enjoy!

• Modern Smoothie Add in:

Cook snow mushroom until soft, blend into a gel-like paste, and add a spoonful to smoothies. It adds texture and is popular in modern “beauty food” recipes.

Research shows snow mushroom polysaccharides may help with skin hydration, immune modulation, and antioxidant protection. Some studies compare its water-retention ability to hyaluronic acid, which is why it’s now used in skincare products. It’s also being studied for possible roles in blood sugar balance, cholesterol management, and anti-inflammatory effects, though more research on it is required. Today, it’s found in desserts, soups, supplements, and beauty drinks, and even in cosmetics for moisturizing benefits.

Fun Facts!

• Because it is high in soluble fiber-like compounds, eating large amounts at once may cause mild digestive discomfort.

• In Chinese culture, it is associated with beauty, youthfulness, and nourishment, often called a natural “beauty mushroom.”

• The snow mushroom is one of the most popular health foods in East Asia.