Air Fryer Reishi Mushrooms

Air Fryer Reishi Mushrooms

Air frying Reishi mushrooms is not for everyday snacking—but when prepared properly, they can be dried and crisped into small, potent slices ideal for brewing tea or using in wellness-focused recipes. With their naturally tough, woody texture and bitter flavor, Reishi is best enjoyed as a functional food rather than a crispy snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Functional and Medicinal

Reishi mushrooms (also known as Lingzhi) are prized for their immune-supporting and anti-inflammatory properties.

Perfect for Tea or Tincture Prep

Air frying gently dehydrates thin slices, making them easier to store or steep in hot water.

No Dehydrator Needed

Air fryer drying is faster and more convenient than traditional oven or dehydrator methods.

Easy to Store

Once crisp, these mushrooms can be stored for months and used in teas, broths, or wellness blends.

Ingredients

• 1–2 large Reishi mushrooms (fresh or cleaned wild-harvested)

Optional:

• Sharp knife for slicing

• Clean towel or brush to remove dirt

• Parchment paper or crisper tray for easier handling

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 170–180°F (75–82°C)—the lowest setting available—for 2–3 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Reishi Mushrooms

• Gently brush off any dirt or debris—do not wash with water.

• Slice mushrooms thinly—about ⅛ inch thick—for best drying results.

• Arrange in a single layer in the basket or on parchment paper if needed.

Step 3: Air Fry to Dehydrate

• Cook at 170–180°F for 1 to 2 hours, checking every 20–30 minutes.

• Flip slices or shake basket occasionally for even drying.

• Reishi is ready when it is fully dry, brittle, and snaps easily.

Step 4: Cool & Store

Let cool completely, then transfer to an airtight jar or container. Store in a cool, dry place.

Pro Tips for the Best Results

Slice Thin

Thinner slices dehydrate faster and are easier to steep in teas.

Keep Temperature Low

High heat can destroy the beneficial compounds in Reishi—stick to a low drying temperature.

Use for Brewing Only

Reishi is too tough and bitter for eating like other mushrooms—best reserved for medicinal use.

Store in Glass Jars

Keeps the mushrooms dry and extends shelf life—ideal for tea lovers or herbalists.

What to Do With Dried Reishi Mushrooms

Brew as Tea

• Simmer 2–3 slices in water for 20–30 minutes. Strain and sip slowly.

• Add ginger or honey to soften the bitter taste.

Use in Broth

• Add to soup stock or bone broth for added depth and wellness benefits.

Combine in Herbal Blends

• Mix with dried ginger, turmeric, or licorice root for custom wellness teas.

Make Reishi Tincture

• Steep dried slices in alcohol for several weeks to extract medicinal compounds.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

How to Store

Store dried Reishi slices in an airtight jar for up to 1 year in a cool, dark place.

Do I Reheat Reishi to Eat?

No—Reishi is not meant for direct eating. Always brew or extract before consuming.

Can You Freeze Dried Reishi?

Yes—if moisture-free, freeze in airtight containers to extend shelf life even further.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Eat Reishi Mushrooms?

Not in the traditional sense—Reishi is too woody and bitter to eat as a snack. It's best used in teas and tinctures.

Why Air Fry Instead of Dehydrate?

An air fryer with low-temp settings can work like a dehydrator, offering a fast, space-saving option.

Is It Safe to Forage Reishi?

Yes—with proper identification. When in doubt, purchase from a trusted source.

What Does Reishi Taste Like?

Bitter, earthy, and woody—definitely more medicinal than culinary. Air Fryer Reishi Mushrooms

Air fryer Reishi mushrooms at low temperature to dry them for tea, tinctures, and wellness blends. Learn how to slice, dehydrate, and store them for long-lasting functional use. Full instructions, pro tips, and serving ideas included.