Wood Ear Mushroom Salad

Soak mushrooms in 8 cups water overnight.

When ready to prepare salad, put a large pot of water on to boil. Set a large bowl of ice water near the stove. Drain the mushrooms and cut into 3-inch pieces. Add to the boiling water and cook for 5 minutes. Transfer with a slotted spoon to the ice water. Drain and pat the mushrooms dry.

Heat chili oil, ginger, garlic and sesame oil in a small skillet over medium heat until starting to sizzle, about 30 seconds. Add chili-bean sauce (or sambal oelek) and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 15 seconds. Remove from heat and whisk in reduced-sodium soy sauce, thick (or dark) soy sauce, black vinegar and sugar.

Transfer the sauce to a large bowl. Add the mushrooms and cilantro and stir to coat.