Sarah Brown
Dehydrating mushrooms is a great way to preserve them and ensure they don't spoil. However, it's important to get the temperature right. If the temperature is too high, the mushrooms can turn brown and develop an awful taste. On the other hand, if the temperature is too low or the drying time is insufficient, mould can form. The ideal temperature range for dehydrating mushrooms is between 55°C and 60°C (110°F to 140°F), with thicker slices requiring higher temperatures.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 110 °F (43.3 °C) or 140 °F (60 °C) |
| Time | 8-24 hours |
| Thickness | 1/4 to 1/2 inch |
| Storage | Airtight glass jars |
| Fan | Required; may get clogged with spores |
| Thermostat | Required |
| Wattage | Low for slow dehydration, high for fast dehydration |
| Plastic bags | Not suitable for long-term storage |
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What You'll Learn
Dehydrator temperature settings
Dehydrating mushrooms is a great way to preserve them and ensure they do not spoil. When selecting a dehydrator, it is important to consider the temperature settings available. The ideal temperature range for dehydrating mushrooms is between 110°F to 140°F (approximately 43°C to 60°C).
Some dehydrators offer a simple on-off function without a thermostat, but this may result in uneven drying and a detrimental impact on the flavour of the mushrooms. Therefore, it is recommended to opt for a dehydrator with a temperature control feature, allowing you to set the desired temperature and adjust it according to the type of mushroom and thickness of slices.
The Excalibur 3900 9-tray model, for example, provides temperature control along with a timer, enabling precise drying conditions. Additionally, consider the wattage of the dehydrator, as it may run for extended periods, impacting your electricity bills. A higher wattage bulb can be used for faster drying, while a low watt bulb is suitable for slow dehydration.
The thickness of the mushroom slices also influences the drying time. Thicker slices require a longer drying time, and it is recommended to slice them between 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. To ensure even drying, arrange the mushroom slices in a single layer on the trays, avoiding any overlap. This allows for optimal airflow, preventing moisture retention.
It is crucial to monitor the mushrooms towards the end of the drying process, as vegetables can scorch easily. The mushrooms are ready when they are crispy and dry, with a total drying time of approximately 8 to 24 hours, depending on the thickness and variety of the mushrooms.
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Mushroom preparation
Dehydrating mushrooms is a great way to preserve them and ensure they don't spoil. It's a simple process that requires some preparation and basic kitchen equipment. Here's a step-by-step guide to preparing mushrooms for dehydration:
Cleaning and Slicing:
Start by cleaning your mushrooms with a damp paper towel or kitchen towel. Avoid placing them under running water as mushrooms are porous and can absorb water, which may affect the drying process and their texture. Remove any tough stems and trim the stalks. You can choose to slice the mushrooms first and then clean them, or vice versa, depending on what's easiest for you. Slice the mushrooms into pieces that are about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. The thicker the slices, the longer they will take to dry, so consider your desired drying time when slicing.
Tray Arrangement:
Arrange the cleaned and sliced mushrooms on the dehydrator trays. Ensure that none of the pieces are overlapping or touching. This allows for optimal airflow and even drying. Mushrooms shrink significantly during dehydration, so arranging them close together maximizes the number of mushrooms per batch.
Dehydration Temperature and Time:
Set your dehydrator to the recommended temperature of between 110°F and 125°F (43-52°C). The drying time will depend on the thickness of your slices and the type of mushroom. Thinner slices will take approximately 3-8 hours, while thicker slices may take longer. Check your dehydrator's specific instructions for guidance. It's important to ensure that the mushrooms are completely dry before storing them.
Storage:
Once the mushrooms are dried, let them cool down, and then transfer them to airtight glass jars. Label the jars with the contents and the date of drying. Store the jars away from direct light and heat. Properly dehydrated and stored mushrooms can last for at least a year.
Rehydration:
To use the dehydrated mushrooms, place them in a heat-proof bowl and pour boiling water over them. Soak them for around 20 to 30 minutes. You can use the soaking liquid for added flavour in stocks, soups, and sauces. Drain the mushrooms, and they are now ready to be used just like fresh mushrooms in your recipes.
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Drying time
Drying mushrooms is a great way to preserve them and ensure they don't spoil. The time it takes to dry mushrooms depends on several factors, including the type of mushroom, the thickness of the slices, the drying temperature, and the equipment used.
Firstly, it's important to select mushrooms that are in good condition, with no signs of decay, mould, or bruising. Clean the mushrooms thoroughly and slice them into pieces between 1/4 and 1/2 inch thick. The thicker the slices, the longer they will take to dry. Some mushrooms can be dried whole, while others must be sliced. It's also crucial to ensure that the mushroom pieces do not overlap on the drying trays, as this allows for the best airflow and even drying.
The ideal drying temperature for mushrooms is between 110°F and 140°F (43-60°C). At this temperature, it typically takes 8-10 hours in a dehydrator for the mushrooms to become crispy dry. However, thicker slices or mushrooms with higher water content may take longer to dry thoroughly. It is recommended to dry mushrooms at a lower temperature for a longer period to prevent them from scorching or developing an off taste.
Some mushroom varieties, like Candy Caps, can lose their aroma if dried too quickly or at too high a temperature. Therefore, it's essential to experiment with different temperatures and drying times for each mushroom type. Additionally, the placement of the trays in the dehydrator can impact the drying time, as trays at the top and bottom may dry at different rates. It is recommended to rotate the trays periodically to ensure even drying.
Once the mushrooms are dried, it is crucial to let them cool down completely before transferring them to airtight containers or jars. Any residual moisture can lead to mould or bug issues during storage. It is recommended to condition the dried mushrooms by placing them loosely in containers for 4 to 10 days, stirring or shaking daily to separate the pieces and ensure even drying. After conditioning, store the mushrooms in moisture-proof containers or bags, away from direct light and heat.
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Storing dehydrated mushrooms
Dehydrating mushrooms is a great way to preserve them and ensure they do not spoil. When dehydrating mushrooms, it is important to ensure they do not get too hot, as this can negatively impact their taste and texture. While some sources recommend dehydrating at 110 °F, others advise against using a dehydrator without a thermostat, as this can cause the mushrooms to burn and taste awful.
Now, let's talk about storing dehydrated mushrooms:
Choosing a Container
Use an airtight container such as a glass canning jar with a tight-fitting lid or a resealable plastic bag. If using a plastic bag, squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing. Make sure to use high-quality containers, as this will directly impact the state of your mushrooms. Avoid using regular sealable plastic bags, as they absorb too much moisture and are not a long-term solution.
Preparing the Mushrooms
Before placing the mushrooms in their container, ensure they are completely dry. If the mushrooms are not sufficiently dry, they may develop mould or bugs. If you are using a glass jar, transfer the cooled, dried mushrooms and cover tightly with the lid. If you are using a plastic bag, it is recommended to use bags that are compatible with extremely low temperatures, as these are usually thicker than regular plastic bags.
Storing
Label the container with the contents, including the type of mushroom and the date of drying. If you live in a humid climate or the storage area is too moist, consider using oxygen-absorbing packets in your containers. These packets contain iron powder, which absorbs oxygen and helps keep food items from spoiling. You can then store the mushrooms in the fridge, freezer, or at room temperature in a cabinet. If storing in the freezer, avoid placing weighty items on top of the bags of mushrooms, as they may get crushed.
Using Dehydrated Mushrooms
To use your dehydrated mushrooms, simply pour boiling water over them and let them soak for 20 to 30 minutes. You can then drain the liquid, saving the richly flavoured soaking liquid for soups or sauces. Use the rehydrated mushrooms as you would fresh mushrooms.
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Rehydrating dehydrated mushrooms
Dehydrating mushrooms is a great way to preserve them and prevent spoilage. However, the rehydration process is what brings them back to life, restoring their texture and flavour. Here is a comprehensive guide to rehydrating dehydrated mushrooms.
Preparing the Mushrooms
Before rehydrating, inspect the dehydrated mushrooms for any signs of spoilage, such as slime, dark spots, or any bad odour. If the mushrooms appear to be in good condition, proceed to the next step. Clean the mushrooms by gently brushing off any visible dirt or debris. You can also rinse them quickly under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
Rehydration Techniques
The most common method for rehydrating mushrooms is to use hot water. Place the cleaned mushrooms in a heat-proof bowl and pour boiling water over them. Make sure the mushrooms are completely submerged by using a plate or another heavy object to keep them weighed down. For faster rehydration, you can use a French press, which keeps the mushrooms submerged and allows you to extract even more flavour. Soak the mushrooms for 20 to 30 minutes, or longer if they are thicker or whole cap mushrooms. You can also adjust the water temperature to be warm or hot to expedite the process, but this will release more flavour into the water.
Straining and Rinsing
Once the mushrooms have softened, remove them from the liquid. Lightly squeeze the mushrooms to remove excess water, then taste a small piece. If you notice any grittiness, it is important to rinse them. Place the mushrooms in a strainer and run them under water for a few seconds, tossing them to ensure all the grit is removed.
Using the Soaking Liquid
The liquid used for soaking the mushrooms is rich in flavour and can be used in various ways. Strain the liquid through a coffee filter or paper towel to remove any remaining grit or dirt. This flavoured liquid can then be added to soups, stocks, sauces, or any dish that could benefit from a boost of umami flavour.
Cooking with Rehydrated Mushrooms
After rehydrating, the mushrooms are ready to be used in your recipes. You can sauté them in butter or oil, add them to stir-fries, toss them into salads, or use them as a garnish. Rehydrated mushrooms are versatile and can be treated much like fresh mushrooms in your favourite dishes.
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Frequently asked questions
Mushrooms should be dried at 110 °F (43 °C) or 140 °F (60 °C) until they are crispy. Some sources recommend temperatures as low as 55 °C, but this may not be hot enough to prevent mould from forming. Temperatures that are too high can cause vegetables to scorch, so monitor closely as drying nears completion.
Vegetables can scorch easily towards the end of the drying process, so keep a close eye on them. If your mushrooms have turned brown and taste bad, this may be a sign that they dried too hot.
If you are drying your mushrooms in an oven, you will need to turn large pieces every 3 to 4 hours. If you are using a dehydrator, make sure it has a thermostat so that you can control the temperature.
