Keep Your Mushrooms Fresh: The Ultimate Guide

Mushrooms are a versatile ingredient used in cooking, especially in Asian and European cuisines. They are also priced for their freshness and short shelf life. Knowing how to store mushrooms properly can help prolong their freshness and prevent food waste. This is especially important for magic mushrooms, which can go bad in just a day or two if not stored correctly. The best method for storing mushrooms will keep them free of slime and mould, and can even improve their flavour.

Storing mushrooms in a paper bag in the fridge

When storing mushrooms in a paper bag, it is important to loosely fold the top of the bag to secure it. This allows for proper air circulation, ensuring the mushrooms stay fresh and appetizing. It is best to use the mushrooms within a week for peak freshness and flavour, although they can last longer.

One person who tested this method reported that all the mushrooms were dry and slightly wrinkly, with four of them having dark spots. There was no discernible odour. The brown paper bag kept the moisture at bay, although the dark spots were a bit concerning. The tester discarded the mushrooms with the spots and cooked the rest.

Another tester reported that the mushrooms stayed dry and fresh for the first five days. At the end of 10 days, two of the mushrooms had a little slimy film and half of them developed dark spots. The paper towels stayed dry. This method is recommended for shorter storage.

It is worth noting that some sources suggest that wrapping mushrooms in paper towels and placing them in an open plastic bag can trap moisture, leading to a damp environment that promotes spoilage. However, this method can still work for shorter storage periods, such as five days.

The shelf life of sliced mushrooms

Sliced mushrooms have a shelf life of 4 to 7 days in the refrigerator. To maximise their lifespan, they should be stored in a covered container, a resealable plastic bag, or wrapped tightly in aluminium foil or plastic wrap.

Sliced mushrooms can also be frozen and will maintain their best quality for about 12 months, although they will remain safe to eat beyond this time. To freeze sliced mushrooms, they should be steamed or sauteed in butter or margarine first, then cooled, packaged in airtight containers or freezer bags, and frozen immediately.

It is important to note that mushrooms are delicate and perishable, and even when stored properly, they will not last forever. They should be used within a week of purchase, and it is recommended to keep them away from strong-smelling food as they will absorb odours. Signs that mushrooms have spoiled include sliminess, wrinkles, and dark spots or discolouration.

How to clean mushrooms before storage

The first step to ensuring your mushrooms stay fresh for longer is to clean them properly before storage. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do this:

Firstly, it is important to note that mushrooms should not be washed until you are ready to use them. If you are cleaning store-bought sliced mushrooms, give them a shake in a colander to loosen any dirt, then quickly rinse them under water and dry them off with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. If you are cleaning whole mushrooms, gently twist off or cut off the stems. You can reserve the stems to use in a filling if you are making stuffed mushrooms.

Next, hold a mushroom in one hand and use a spoon to gently scrape the gills from the underside of the cap; repeat this process for all the mushrooms. Now, take a handful of mushrooms and hold them under running water to get rid of all visible dirt and grime. Place them on a paper towel or clean kitchen towel to absorb any dripping water while you wash the remaining mushrooms.

Finally, give the washed mushrooms an extra clean by rubbing them all over with a paper towel. This step will ensure that any remaining dirt or grime is removed, and it will also help to dry the mushrooms. Make sure to pay attention to the area between the stem and cap of the mushrooms, as dirt can get trapped there.

Once your mushrooms are clean and dry, you can store them in the refrigerator. Place them in a paper bag or porous container to allow for airflow and prevent moisture accumulation. Avoid using plastic bags or sealed containers, as the lack of airflow will cause the mushrooms to spoil faster. With proper cleaning and storage, your mushrooms should stay fresh for up to a week.

Freezing mushrooms

Preparation

Before freezing mushrooms, it is important to clean them thoroughly. Wash the mushrooms to remove any dirt and debris, then gently pat them dry. You can also trim off any woody parts or stems that you don't want to eat. It is recommended to cut the mushrooms into uniform pieces, such as quarters or slices, to ensure even cooking or steaming. However, if the mushrooms are small enough (less than one inch in diameter), you can leave them whole.

Steaming or Cooking

There are two main methods for freezing mushrooms: steaming or cooking them. Steaming involves placing the mushrooms in a steamer basket over boiling water for a brief period, usually around 3 to 5 minutes. This method helps to preserve the texture and structure of the mushrooms. After steaming, immediately transfer the mushrooms to an ice water bath to stop the cooking process, then pat them dry.

Alternatively, you can cook the mushrooms by sautéing them in a pan with a small amount of neutral oil until they are tender. Cooking mushrooms before freezing can enhance their flavour and reduce moisture content, which can affect texture.

Freezing

Once the mushrooms are prepared and steamed or cooked, allow them to cool completely. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container, such as a zip-top bag or airtight container. Remove as much air as possible from the bag or container to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date and contents, then place it in the freezer.

Thawing and Usage

When you are ready to use the frozen mushrooms, you can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or by tossing them directly into a pan during cooking. It is important to note that frozen mushrooms should always be cooked and not consumed raw, as freezing changes their texture and structure. Frozen mushrooms are perfect for adding to sauces, stir-fries, or any cooked dish.

How to store cooked mushrooms

Storing cooked mushrooms is a great way to save time and effort in the kitchen. Here are some detailed and direct instructions on how to do it:

Firstly, it's important to note that mushrooms are delicate and perishable, so they shouldn't be stored for too long, even after cooking. The best method for storing raw mushrooms keeps them free of slime and mould, and improves their flavour. To achieve this, place them in a paper bag or porous container in the refrigerator. This will allow them to stay fresh for about one to two weeks.

Now, when it comes to storing cooked mushrooms, the process is fairly straightforward. After cooking your mushrooms, allow them to cool down to room temperature. This helps prevent condensation and moisture build-up in your storage container, which can lead to faster spoilage. Place the cooled mushrooms in an airtight container. Make sure they are completely dry before storing, as any excess moisture can encourage bacterial growth and affect their shelf life.

You can store cooked mushrooms in the refrigerator for up to four days. It's important to use a container with a tight-fitting lid to prevent odours from escaping or entering, which can affect the flavour of the mushrooms. Label the container with the date of storage so you can keep track of how long they've been in the fridge.

Additionally, you can also freeze cooked mushrooms to extend their shelf life. To do this, spread the cooked mushrooms on a baking tray and place them in the freezer until they are completely frozen. Then, transfer the frozen mushrooms to a freezer-safe container or bag. This method allows you to store them for a longer period. When you're ready to use frozen mushrooms, simply take out the required amount and thaw them in the refrigerator or by cooking them directly.

By following these simple steps, you can enjoy the convenience of having cooked mushrooms readily available for your meals without worrying about waste or spoilage.

Frequently asked questions