John Miller
Mushrooms are a versatile ingredient, adding flavour and texture to a variety of dishes. They come in many forms: whole, sliced, chopped, dried, canned, and powdered. When cooking with mushrooms, recipes may require a specific quantity, such as 8 ounces, but it can be challenging to determine how much to buy or measure out, especially when dealing with whole mushrooms. This is where understanding mushroom conversions and equivalents is essential for achieving the desired flavour and texture in your culinary creations.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| 8 ounces of sliced fresh button mushrooms | 4 ounces of drained canned sliced mushrooms |
| 8 ounces of sliced fresh button mushrooms | 1.5 ounces of dried mushrooms plus 3/4 cup of boiling water |
| 8 ounces of fresh sliced mushrooms | 1.5 ounces of dried mushrooms |
| 8 ounces of fresh mushrooms | 227 grams |
| 8 ounces of mushrooms | 1.82 US cups |
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What You'll Learn
Fresh vs dried mushrooms
When it comes to measuring mushrooms, it's important to note that the conversion rates differ depending on whether you're using fresh, dried, or canned mushrooms. Here's a detailed guide on fresh vs dried mushrooms, with a focus on measuring 8 ounces:
Fresh Mushrooms
Fresh mushrooms are highly perishable due to their high moisture content. They typically last for about a week in the refrigerator. When purchasing whole mushrooms, it can be challenging to determine how much to buy. However, with some simple conversions, you can figure out the equivalent measurements. For example, 8 ounces of sliced fresh button mushrooms is equivalent to approximately 4 ounces of drained canned sliced mushrooms.
Dried Mushrooms
Dried mushrooms are a convenient option for last-minute mushroom dishes as they have a longer shelf life compared to fresh mushrooms. They can be stored in airtight containers in a cool, dry place and will last indefinitely. Dried mushrooms have a more concentrated flavour due to dehydration, so a small amount goes a long way in enhancing the taste of your dish. Generally, 1.5 ounces of dried mushrooms is equivalent to 8 ounces of fresh sliced mushrooms.
Conversions and Substitutions
When substituting fresh mushrooms for dried ones, it's crucial to account for the difference in water content and flavour concentration. Here are some conversion guidelines:
- 1 ounce of dried mushrooms is equivalent to about 8 ounces (1/2 pound) of fresh mushrooms.
- 1.5 ounces of dried mushrooms equal 8 ounces of fresh sliced mushrooms.
- If a recipe calls for pounds of dried mushrooms, multiply the pounds by 16, then divide by 5.33 to get the ounces of dried mushrooms needed.
Cooking with Fresh vs Dried Mushrooms
The type of mushroom used can significantly impact the flavour and texture of a dish. Fresh mushrooms are generally preferred when enjoying their flavour on their own, and they are best sautéed, roasted, or baked. On the other hand, dried mushrooms are excellent for adding depth of flavour to dishes like broths, stews, and soups. They can be used in combination with fresh mushrooms to create a layered flavour profile. Additionally, dried mushrooms can be ground into a powder and used as a flavour enhancer in dishes like hamburgers, meatloaf, and meatballs.
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Converting mushroom measurements
Fresh Mushrooms
When working with fresh mushrooms, it's important to note that the measurements can vary depending on whether they are whole, sliced, or chopped. For example, a pound of fresh button mushrooms yields about 2 3/4 cups when chopped and 2 1/2 cups when sliced. Additionally, 1 pound of fresh button mushrooms typically contains 20 to 24 medium-sized mushrooms. So, if you need 8 ounces of fresh button mushrooms, you would need approximately 10 to 12 medium-sized mushrooms.
Dried Mushrooms
Dried mushrooms have a more concentrated flavour due to dehydration. Generally, 1.5 ounces of dried mushrooms is equivalent to 8 ounces of fresh sliced mushrooms. So, if a recipe calls for 8 ounces of dried mushrooms, you would need about 1.5 ounces of dried mushrooms and 3/4 cup of boiling water to reconstitute them.
Canned Mushrooms
Canned mushrooms are already prepared and can be used directly in recipes. When converting fresh mushrooms to canned, 8 ounces of fresh sliced mushrooms are equivalent to 4 ounces of drained canned sliced mushrooms.
Powdered Mushrooms
Powdered mushrooms are great for adding flavour without the texture of whole mushrooms. Conversion ratios for powdered mushrooms are typically given in tablespoons. For example, 1 tablespoon of powdered mushrooms is equivalent to 4 ounces of fresh mushrooms or 2 ounces of canned mushrooms.
It's important to note that these conversions may vary slightly depending on the variety of mushroom and the specific recipe requirements. Additionally, when working with fresh mushrooms, it's best to choose those that are firm and evenly coloured, avoiding any with soft, dark spots or a damp appearance.
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Different types of mushrooms
To measure 8 ounces of mushrooms, you'll need to know whether you're using fresh, dried, or canned mushrooms, as the volume will differ. Here's a breakdown:
- Fresh mushrooms: 8 ounces of fresh mushrooms is equivalent to about 10-12 medium-sized button mushrooms. You can also measure by volume; 8 ounces of sliced fresh button mushrooms is equal to about 2 1/2 cups.
- Dried mushrooms: For dried mushrooms, 1.5 ounces of dried mushrooms equals 8 ounces of fresh sliced mushrooms. So, you would need 1.5 ounces of dried mushrooms for your recipe.
- Canned mushrooms: For canned mushrooms, 4 ounces of drained, sliced mushrooms is equivalent to 8 ounces of fresh sliced mushrooms.
Now, let's move on to the different types of mushrooms. Mushrooms come in a variety of forms, including whole, sliced, chopped, dried, canned, and powdered. Here are some of the most common types:
- Button mushrooms: These are the most common type of mushroom found in grocery stores. They are mild in flavour and can be eaten raw or cooked. They work well in soups, salads, pizzas, and are great for stuffing or sautéing. White button mushrooms, criminis, and portobellos are all the same species at various points in their life cycle. Crimini mushrooms are darker, firmer, and more mature than white buttons, while portobellos are the largest and most mature of the three.
- Chanterelle mushrooms: Chanterelles have a trumpet-like shape with a depression in the centre of their caps. They are another popular variety and can be used in various dishes.
- Shiitake mushrooms: Shiitake mushrooms have a meaty texture and a rich flavour. They are excellent in pasta carbonara or sautéed with other mushrooms for vegan cheesesteaks.
- Oyster mushrooms: Oyster mushrooms, also known as king oysters, have a meaty texture and are versatile in cooking. They can be folded into tacos or used in other dishes.
- Morels: Morels have an elusive honeycomb-like appearance and are prized by chefs for their unique flavour and texture.
- Enoki mushrooms: Enoki mushrooms, or enokitake, feature small, shiny white caps attached to thin, long stems. They have a mild flavour and a distinctive crunch, making them excellent for raw dishes.
These are just a few examples of the many types of mushrooms available. Each variety offers unique characteristics, flavours, and textures that can enhance a wide range of dishes.
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How to store mushrooms
When it comes to storing mushrooms, there are several methods you can use to keep them fresh for as long as possible. Here are some detailed, step-by-step instructions:
Paper Bag Storage:
- Remove mushrooms from any plastic packaging.
- Place the mushrooms in a brown paper bag.
- Optionally, add paper towels to the bag.
- Store the bag on a shelf in the refrigerator, not in the crisper/vegetable drawer.
- Mushrooms stored this way will last for about a week but should be used within five days to avoid slime and mould.
Refrigerator Storage:
- Clean and dry the mushrooms before placing them in an uncovered container or basket in the refrigerator.
- Ensure good air circulation by not overcrowding the container.
- Wax-lined cardboard boxes are also effective for mushroom storage.
- Stored this way, mushrooms will last for several weeks but will gradually dry out and lose weight.
Freezer Storage:
- To store mushrooms for an extended period, you can freeze them.
- Before freezing, mushrooms must be treated to stop maturation: sauté or steam them, then cool them promptly.
- Soak the mushrooms in a mixture containing lemon juice or citric acid to reduce darkening.
- Package the mushrooms, leaving some headspace, and store them in the freezer.
- Frozen mushrooms will keep for up to a year.
Drying Method:
- Dehydrate whole or sliced mushrooms until they are light and dry but still slightly flexible.
- Cool the mushrooms and then store them in polyethylene bags in a dry, cool, dark place.
- Dried mushrooms have a long shelf life and are convenient for last-minute dishes.
Remember, when measuring 8 ounces of mushrooms, you are typically referring to fresh sliced mushrooms, which is equivalent to about 1.5 ounces of dried mushrooms or 4 ounces of drained canned sliced mushrooms.
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Mushroom recipes
Mushrooms are extremely versatile and can be used in a variety of recipes. They are available in many different forms, such as whole, sliced, chopped, dried, canned, and powdered. Knowing the equivalents will help you substitute one kind of mushroom for another. For instance, 8 ounces of sliced fresh button mushrooms is equivalent to 4 ounces of drained canned sliced mushrooms. It is also equivalent to 1.5 ounces of dried mushrooms plus 3/4 cup of boiling water.
Sautéed Mushrooms
Sautéed mushrooms are a delicious topping for steak and baked potatoes. To make this recipe, heat olive oil and butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add mushrooms, wine, teriyaki sauce, sliced garlic, garlic salt, and black pepper. Cook and stir until the mushrooms are lightly browned, which should take about 5 minutes. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for another 5 to 8 minutes until the mushrooms are tender.
Mushroom Risotto
This recipe by Tyler Florence is a fan favorite and is sure to impress your guests. To make this dish, cook risotto with dried porcinis, sautéed mixed fresh mushrooms, and stock infused with mushroom trimmings. For an extra punch of flavor, drizzle some truffle oil over the dish.
Mushroom Biryani
This recipe by Nidhi Jalan is a slow-cooked, warming dish layered with aromatic South Indian spices. Garnish it with crunchy nuts and serve it with a dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki.
Mushroom Stroganoff
In this recipe, portobello and shiitake mushrooms shine in a creamy and comforting pasta sauce draped over buttered egg noodles.
Japanese Udon With Mushroom-Soy Broth
This vegan recipe uses dried mushrooms and the dried powder found on kombu, a type of glutamic acid that forms as it's dehydrated. This powder is a major flavor-booster and is what MSG (monosodium glutamate) is made from. Top the bowl with whatever vegetables you like.
Mushroom Pizza
Before putting the mushrooms on the pizza, be sure to cook them well so that they remain nice and crispy.
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Frequently asked questions
227 grams.
1.82 cups.
20-24 medium-sized fresh button mushrooms.
1.5 ounces.
4 ounces.
