Emma Wilson
Mushrooms are a versatile staple in any kitchen, but they can be challenging to store due to their delicate and perishable nature. The best storage methods will keep them fresh, free of slime and mould, and tasting great. So, what's the best way to store mushrooms in the fridge?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Container | Paper bag, Paper towel-lined zip-top bag, Glass jar |
| Container characteristics | Breathable, Absorbent, Avoids trapping moisture |
| Storage location | Refrigerator shelf, Not the crisper drawer |
| Washing | Avoid until before cooking |
| Storage duration | Up to 10 days, Up to 12 months (frozen) |
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What You'll Learn
Store mushrooms in a paper bag
Storing mushrooms in a paper bag is a great way to keep them fresh for longer. Mushrooms have a high water content, and can easily become slimy if stored in an airtight container. A paper bag is breathable and allows for better airflow, creating a less damp environment for the mushrooms. The paper will absorb any excess moisture, keeping the mushrooms dry and preventing them from spoiling.
When storing mushrooms in a paper bag, it is best to place them on a shelf in the fridge, rather than in the crisper drawer. The crisper drawer tends to be the most humid part of the fridge, which is not ideal for mushrooms. Keeping them on a shelf will help to prolong their life.
It is also important to avoid washing mushrooms before storing them, as this can also contribute to spoilage. Mushrooms should be kept dry and only washed right before cooking or eating.
Additionally, it is recommended to remove mushrooms from their original store-bought packaging. Plastic containers or wrappings can trap moisture, which speeds up spoilage. Transferring the mushrooms to a paper bag will help to extend their shelf life.
By following these simple steps, you can keep your mushrooms fresh and slime-free for up to 10 days. Storing them in a paper bag is an effective and easy way to make sure your mushrooms last longer in the fridge.
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Avoid plastic containers
Mushrooms have a high water content, typically between 80% and 90%. They are also porous, meaning they soak up water like a sponge. Therefore, storing mushrooms in plastic containers is not recommended, as plastic containers trap moisture, which contributes to quicker spoilage. Plastic containers also do not allow for much airflow, creating a damp environment for the mushrooms.
If you buy mushrooms packaged in plastic, it is best to remove them from the plastic and store them in a paper bag or a paper towel-lined zip-top bag. Paper bags absorb the moisture mushrooms naturally release, preventing them from getting slimy. Paper towel-lined bags also draw moisture away from the mushrooms, allowing them to last longer.
It is also important to note that mushrooms should not be stored in the crisper drawer of the fridge, as this is typically the most humid part of the fridge. Instead, they should be stored on a shelf in the refrigerator.
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Use paper towels
Mushrooms are highly perishable and have a short shelf life. The key to keeping them fresh for as long as possible is to store them in a brown paper bag with a paper towel. Paper towels are highly absorbent and draw out the moisture from the mushrooms, preventing them from becoming slimy and mouldy.
If you don't have a brown paper bag, you can wrap the mushrooms in a paper towel and place them in a bowl in the refrigerator. The paper towel will absorb the moisture, and the bowl will provide some ventilation. However, this method may not be as effective as using a paper bag, as the mushrooms will not benefit from the breathability of the bag.
When using paper towels, it is important to avoid placing the mushrooms in a plastic bag or container. Plastic traps moisture, which can cause the mushrooms to spoil more quickly. Instead, opt for a paper bag or a bowl to allow for better airflow and to create a less damp environment for the mushrooms.
Additionally, avoid washing mushrooms before storing them, as this can shorten their shelf life. Mushrooms are best kept dry when being stored, so it is recommended to wait until you are ready to use them before washing or cleaning them.
By following these steps and using paper towels, you can help extend the shelf life of your mushrooms and prevent them from spoiling prematurely.
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Don't wash mushrooms before storing
Mushrooms are delicate and require careful handling. It is best not to wash mushrooms before storing them in the refrigerator. Here are some reasons why:
Firstly, washing mushrooms can make them soggy. Their high water content means they are already quite moist, and adding more water can negatively impact their texture. Mushrooms are like sponges and can absorb water, leading to a slimy texture and diminished flavour. This extra moisture can also make them more prone to spoilage and discolouration, encouraging the growth of bacteria and mould.
Secondly, washing mushrooms before storing them can reduce their shelf life. Even if dried thoroughly, washed mushrooms may not keep as well. Their surface cells can be damaged, making them more susceptible to decay. Therefore, it is advisable to clean mushrooms just before cooking to ensure optimal freshness and taste.
Additionally, the added moisture from washing can make mushrooms challenging to cook. They may take longer to cook properly, and the extra water can affect the dish's overall flavour and texture. This is especially important when grilling or searing mushrooms, as the added water can impact the cooking process and final product.
Finally, storing washed mushrooms can lead to cross-contamination. Mushrooms are porous and can absorb water, along with any bacteria or impurities present. This can cause food safety issues, especially if the storage container or environment is not entirely sterile. Therefore, it is safer to clean mushrooms just before use, reducing the risk of bacterial growth and foodborne illnesses.
In summary, it is best to avoid washing mushrooms before storing them in the refrigerator. Instead, gently wipe them with a damp cloth or brush off any visible dirt. By doing so, you will maintain their texture, flavour, and freshness, ensuring they are ready for your culinary creations.
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Place on a shelf, not in the crisper drawer
The crisper drawer in your refrigerator is designed to create a humid environment, which is great for storing leafy greens but not ideal for mushrooms. Mushrooms have a porous texture, meaning they soak up water like a sponge. They have a high water content, ranging from 80 to 90 percent, and are susceptible to absorbing moisture from their surroundings. Therefore, storing them in a humid environment like the crisper drawer will make them slimy and speed up spoilage.
Instead, place your mushrooms on a shelf in the fridge. If you've bought them packaged, remove them from the sealed plastic container and place them in a paper bag or a paper towel-lined zip-top bag. The paper bag will absorb the moisture mushrooms naturally release, preventing them from getting slimy. It also allows for better airflow and creates a less damp environment for the mushrooms.
If you're using the mushrooms within a few days, you can simply punch some holes in the plastic wrap of the original packaging before placing them in the fridge on a shelf. Avoid washing the mushrooms before storing them, as this will make them spoil faster.
Storing mushrooms on a shelf in the fridge, instead of in the crisper drawer, will help to prolong their life and keep them fresh and slime-free.
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Frequently asked questions
Mushrooms should be stored in a paper bag in the fridge. This will keep them fresh for up to 10 days.
Sliced mushrooms should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge and used within 3 days.
Mushrooms last between 7 and 14 days in the fridge.
Mushrooms have a high water content and are sponges to other moisture. To prevent them from getting slimy, keep them dry and store them in a paper bag or a paper towel-lined zip-top bag.
