Michael Davis
Mushrooms are a popular ingredient in meals around the world, with the average American consuming approximately three pounds of mushrooms annually. They are a good source of ergothioneine, an amino acid and antioxidant that may lower the risk of cancer. However, mushrooms can be gritty and dirty, especially wild varieties. To clean mushrooms, some people recommend brushing them, while others suggest rinsing them with water. The best method depends on the type of mushroom and its source. Wild mushrooms, for example, may require a short soak in water to remove any dirt or bugs, while store-bought mushrooms can often be cleaned by simply brushing away any loose dirt.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cleaning methods | Brushing, rinsing, soaking, drying |
| Cleaning tools | Colander, bowl, mushroom brush, pastry brush, paper towel, cotton cloth, kitchen towel |
| Cleaning agents | Salt, water |
| Types of mushrooms | Wild, cultivated, store-bought, foraged, fresh, dried, pre-sliced, chopped |
| Mushroom varieties | Portobello, button, white, cremini, oyster, maitake, morel, chanterelle, shiitake, hen of the woods, chicken of the woods, puffballs, king trumpets, blue oyster, lion's mane, Italian oyster, enoki |
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What You'll Learn
Brushing mushrooms
To brush mushrooms, use a soft-bristled brush, such as a mushroom brush or a pastry brush. You can also use a damp paper towel. Gently brush away any dirt or debris from the surface of the mushrooms, paying close attention to the area under the cap and the gills, as dirt can often be hiding in these areas. If the mushrooms are wild or foraged, they may require extra cleaning to remove remnants of the forest floor, such as dirt, grit, or small insects. In this case, a combination of brushing and a quick rinse in cool water may be necessary.
For delicate mushrooms, such as oyster mushrooms, it is important to be gentle when brushing to avoid breaking the caps. After brushing, you may need to trim the ends and soak the mushrooms for a few minutes before drying them thoroughly. This can be done with a salad spinner or by gently bundling them in a thin cotton dish towel and swinging them in a windmill motion, preferably outdoors.
For chanterelle mushrooms, it is important to check for tiny bug holes at the stem end. If there are no bug holes, you can wash them following the method for wild hen-of-the-woods mushrooms. If there are bug holes, add salt to the washing water (1 tablespoon per 4 cups of water) to evict any tiny creatures. Soak the mushrooms for 20 minutes, drain, and repeat the process. Then, dry the mushrooms on a double layer of cotton dish towels.
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Soaking mushrooms
To soak mushrooms, place them in a colander in a bowl and cover them with cool water. Mushrooms should be swirled with your fingers to loosen any dirt and debris. The water should then be poured out immediately. The mushrooms should be spread out on a dry towel and patted dry with another towel.
For store-bought mushrooms, a simple brushing may be sufficient. Brushing can remove loose dirt, but bits may be more firmly attached or hidden in the gills. For wild mushrooms, it is best to use water to wash away any remnants of the forest where they grow.
For foraged mushrooms or those harbouring critters, salt can be added to the water to evict any tiny creatures. This method involves dissolving 1 tablespoon of salt in 4 cups of water, adding the mushrooms, and soaking them for 20 minutes. The mushrooms are then drained and the process is repeated. They are then dried on a double layer of cotton dish towels.
Morel mushrooms, which have a honeycomb-like texture, should be brushed before they are washed. They should be cut in half lengthwise and placed in a bowl of cool water to swirl and remove dirt. They are then dried in a salad spinner.
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Removing dirt and bugs
When it comes to removing dirt and bugs from mushrooms, there are several methods you can use, depending on the type of mushroom and the level of cleaning required. Here are some detailed instructions to ensure your mushrooms are clean and safe to eat:
Brushing:
For delicate, expensive, or wild mushrooms, it is recommended to brush them clean instead of washing them with water. Use a mushroom brush, pastry brush, or damp paper towel to gently brush away any dirt or debris from the surface of the mushrooms. This method is ideal for store-bought mushrooms like white, button, cremini, shitake, oyster, and enoki mushrooms. It is also suitable for foraged or wild mushrooms, as it prevents damage and waterlogging.
Rinsing and Soaking:
If your mushrooms are exceptionally dirty, a quick rinse or short soak in water can help loosen and remove dirt and debris. Place the mushrooms in a colander and rinse with a gentle stream of water, or fill a bowl with cool water and swirl the mushrooms in it for about ten seconds. Make sure to pat the mushrooms dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels afterward. This method is suitable for cultivated mushrooms like portobellos, buttons, and oysters.
Saltwater Soak:
If you're dealing with foraged or wild mushrooms that may be harbouring bugs, a saltwater soak can help evict any tiny creatures. Dissolve 1 tablespoon of salt in 4 cups of water, then add the mushrooms and soak for 20 minutes. Drain and repeat the process. Finally, dry the mushrooms on a double layer of cotton dish towels. This method is particularly useful for chanterelles, which often carry hitchhikers, especially during the summer months.
Trimming and Cutting:
Sometimes, simply removing the dirty parts of the mushroom is sufficient. Trim the ends of the stems or cut off any sections holding dirt, usually the base or end of the stem. This method is suitable for cultivated mushrooms that are relatively clean, such as those purchased at a grocery store.
Storage and Timing:
It is generally recommended to clean mushrooms just before using them. However, if you need to store cleaned mushrooms, wrap them loosely in damp paper towels or a damp clean cotton cloth and place them in the refrigerator. Keep the towels damp to prevent the mushrooms from drying out.
Remember, the key to cleaning mushrooms is to avoid waterlogging, as it can affect their texture and cooking properties. Always ensure your mushrooms are completely dry before cooking, and only use water when necessary, especially for wild or heavily soiled mushrooms.
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Drying mushrooms
Mushrooms are like little sponges, so they absorb water easily. This can affect how they cook, so it's important to keep them as dry as possible. When cleaning mushrooms, it's best to use a brush or a damp cloth to wipe away any dirt. If you do use water, make sure you don't soak the mushrooms for too long and dry them thoroughly afterward.
Air Drying
Place the mushrooms in an open container with good airflow, such as a mesh colander. Leave them in a well-ventilated area, preferably in the sun, for about 7-10 days. Make sure they are completely dry before storing them. This method can take a while, so it's best if you don't need the mushrooms right away.
Oven Drying
Place the mushrooms in an oven heated to 175°F (80°C) for 2 hours, flipping them halfway through. Then, transfer them to a colander to air-dry for another 3-5 days. Make sure the mushrooms are completely dry before storing them. This method is faster than air-drying but still requires some time.
Freezer Drying
Place the mushrooms in a paper bag and put them in the freezer. This method is slower than the others, but it is effective if you don't need the mushrooms immediately.
Dehydrator
You can also use a dehydrator to dry mushrooms. Simply follow the instructions for your specific model. This method typically takes around 2-4 hours.
Regardless of the method you choose, make sure the mushrooms are completely dry before storing them. Dried mushrooms can last up to two years when stored in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. To use the dried mushrooms, simply rehydrate them by soaking them in warm water for 1-2 hours. The soaking liquid can also be used in cooking to add extra flavour.
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Storing mushrooms
Firstly, it is important to buy good quality mushrooms. Depending on the type of mushroom, there are different things to look out for. For white or cremini mushrooms, choose those that are firm, plump, and clean, with the cap attached to the stem. Portobello mushrooms should have an earthy smell and fresh-looking gills. Shiitake mushrooms should have smooth, firm caps and be tender, but not dry or slimy.
When it comes to storing mushrooms, the general consensus is that moisture is the number one enemy. Therefore, it is best to avoid washing mushrooms before storing them. Plastic should also be avoided as it traps moisture, leading to discolouration, mould, and slime. Instead, wrap mushrooms in paper towels and place them in open plastic bags or, even better, paper bags. Keep them in the fridge. This method will keep the mushrooms fresh and even improve their taste.
If you do need to wash your mushrooms before storing them, perhaps because they are wild mushrooms or have visible dirt, there are a few methods you can use. One popular method is to use a colander and two drying towels. Place the mushrooms in the colander and spray them with a gentle stream of water. Brush away any dirt with your fingers, then place the clean mushrooms on a dry towel, spreading them out in a single layer. Gently pat them with a second towel until they are completely dry.
Another method, which is useful for removing small insects from foraged mushrooms, is to add salt to the washing water. Dissolve one tablespoon of salt per four cups of water, then add the mushrooms and soak them for 20 minutes. Drain the water and repeat the process. Finally, dry the mushrooms on a double layer of cotton dish towels.
Remember, the key to storing mushrooms is to keep them as dry as possible. By following these tips, you can extend the shelf life of your mushrooms and enjoy their earthy richness in your favourite dishes.
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Frequently asked questions
The best method for cleaning mushrooms depends on the type of mushroom. For delicate, expensive mushrooms, it is recommended to gently brush them clean with a mushroom brush, pastry brush, or damp paper towel. For most other mushrooms, it is best to use a combination of brushing and washing. Place the mushrooms in a bowl of cool water and swirl them with your fingers to loosen any dirt. Then, drain the water and lay the mushrooms out on a towel to dry.
Yes, the method for cleaning mushrooms depends on whether they are cultivated or wild, and the specific variety. For example, chanterelles are wild mushrooms that should be soaked in salty water to remove any small insects. Oyster mushrooms, which are cultivated, tend to be very clean and only require a gentle trim and a short soak.
Mushrooms can be gritty and dirty, especially wild mushrooms. Cleaning mushrooms ensures that they are safe to eat and improves their flavor.
Yes, mushrooms have been found to have several health benefits. They are a powerful source of ergothioneine, an amino acid and antioxidant that prevents or slows cellular damage. Eating mushrooms has been linked to a reduced risk of cancer and lower cholesterol levels. They are also naturally low in sodium, which can help to lower blood pressure.
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