Dried mushrooms are a tasty addition to soups and stews along with my favorite way to use the: ground into a powder and added to all manner of sauces and rubs.
The natural glutamates in mushrooms work particularly well with beef dishes and tomato sauce based recipes.
I buy a gourmet blend from Costco and dried shiitakes art local Asian grocery store.
Good for you! Cooking is a real talent as well as a chnellage. Simple is always good. Remember a colorful’ plate of food is a healthy meal. The colorful ingredients are full of nutrients. Have fun and keep us posted on what you are preparing for your Mom. I know she will love it. Sal