Mushroom Essence
-makes 2 cups

1/2 pound whole crimini or domestic mushrooms, including stems
6 cloves garlic, lightly crushed
2 Tbsp tamari

Combine mushrooms, garlic, and 6 C water in a 3-quart saucepan.  Bring to a boil, lower the heat, and cook at a low boil for about 1 hour, or until the liquid has been reduced to ~2 cups.  Strain the liquid, and add the tamari.