Emma Wilson
Mushrooms are a versatile ingredient, but it can be frustrating when recipes don't specify whether they require fresh, dried, or canned mushrooms. This is further complicated by the fact that mushrooms are often sold by weight, volume, or a vague description such as 2 large portabellas. To complicate matters further, the weight of mushrooms varies depending on the type, with a typical portobello weighing in at 3 oz (85 g), while a pound of fresh button mushrooms is equivalent to 20-24 medium-sized mushrooms. So, how many pounds are 8 oz of fresh mushrooms?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| 8 oz of fresh mushrooms | 20-24 medium-sized fresh button mushrooms |
| 8 oz of sliced fresh button mushrooms | 4 oz of drained canned sliced mushrooms |
| 8 oz of sliced fresh button mushrooms | 1.5 oz of dried mushrooms plus 3/4 cup of boiling water |
| 1 lb of fresh mushrooms | 2.3 oz of dried mushrooms |
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What You'll Learn
Fresh vs dried mushrooms
Fresh mushrooms are highly perishable due to their high moisture content and are susceptible to enzymatic browning. They will only stay fresh for about a week in the refrigerator and can be stored at room temperature for only 12 to 24 hours. To extend their shelf life, you can freeze or dry them.
Dried mushrooms, on the other hand, can last indefinitely in a dry, cool, dark place, such as a cupboard or freezer, as long as they are kept dry. They are also convenient as they are easily reconstituted by soaking in water, after which they resemble fresh mushrooms. The flavour of dried mushrooms is more concentrated than that of fresh mushrooms, making them excellent for adding depth to dishes like broths, stews, and soups.
When it comes to cooking, fresh mushrooms are generally tastier on their own and are best sautéed, roasted, or baked. They are also more affordable than dried mushrooms. However, dried mushrooms are used to enhance the flavour of dishes like carpaccio and tartare and are often used as garnishes. They are also handy when a particular type of mushroom is expensive or not locally available.
In terms of weight conversion, 8 ounces of sliced fresh button mushrooms are equivalent to 1.5 ounces of dried mushrooms. To be more precise, 3 ounces (85 grams) of fresh mushrooms equal 8 ounces of dried mushrooms, but this is not by weight. Instead, it refers to volume, where 8 ounces of fresh mushrooms yield 1 cup, which is the same volume as 8 ounces of dried mushrooms.
Therefore, if a recipe calls for 8 ounces of fresh mushrooms, you would need 1.5 ounces of dried mushrooms, assuming the dried variety can be reconstituted to the same volume as the fresh mushrooms.
To summarise, both fresh and dried mushrooms have their advantages and unique applications in cooking. Fresh mushrooms are preferred for their taste and affordability, while dried mushrooms offer convenience, longer shelf life, and more concentrated flavours. The decision to use one over the other depends on the specific requirements of the dish and the availability of the ingredients.
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Storage methods
Fresh mushrooms have a short shelf life and can be expensive, so it's important to know how to store them properly. Here are some storage methods to keep your mushrooms fresh and slime-free:
Refrigerate
It is recommended to store mushrooms in the refrigerator, ideally within an hour of purchase, to prolong their shelf life. Place them on a shelf in the fridge, rather than in the crisper drawer, as the latter is too moist. Mushrooms are best stored in a porous container to promote air circulation and prevent them from spoiling.
Paper Bag
One effective method is to place the mushrooms in a paper bag, which will absorb any moisture released by the mushrooms, keeping them dry and fresh. You can also wrap the mushrooms in a paper towel and then place them in a bowl or a paper towel-lined zip-top bag in the fridge. Avoid using plastic wrap as this can trap moisture and lead to slime formation.
Dehydration
Another option for long-term storage is to dehydrate the mushrooms. This method preserves the quality of the fungi and extends their shelf life indefinitely. You can use a dehydrator, an oven, or air-drying techniques. Once completely dry, store the mushrooms in an airtight glass jar or polyethylene bag in a cool, dry, and dark place.
Freezing
If you have a surplus of mushrooms, you can also freeze them. However, fresher mushrooms tend to freeze better, so it's recommended to freeze them sooner rather than later. Lightly cook the mushrooms before freezing to preserve their quality and flavour. You can sauté them in butter or steam them, then allow them to cool before placing them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 12 months.
Other Tips
- Avoid washing mushrooms before storing them as this can introduce moisture and shorten their shelf life.
- Keep mushrooms away from strong-smelling foods in the fridge, as their porous nature will cause them to absorb odours.
- Sliced mushrooms have a shorter shelf life than whole mushrooms, and cooked mushrooms can last slightly longer than raw ones.
- If you buy pre-packaged mushrooms, simply pop them in the fridge as the perforations in the package will allow air circulation to keep them dry.
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Portion sizes
To provide a starting point for portion sizes, let's consider the common button mushroom as a reference. On average, a pound of medium-sized fresh button mushrooms contains around 20 to 24 individual mushrooms. This equates to approximately 10 to 12 mushrooms in a half-pound portion. If sliced, a half-pound of button mushrooms yields about 2 3/4 cups, while chopped, it fills about 2 1/2 cups. So, if your recipe calls for sliced mushrooms, you would need slightly more to fill the same volume as chopped mushrooms.
Now, let's discuss the equivalent portion sizes for other mushroom varieties. Portobello mushrooms, for instance, are larger than button mushrooms, typically weighing around 3 ounces (85 grams) each, with a diameter of 4 to 6 inches. Cremini mushrooms, also known as baby bellas, are smaller, usually measuring 1 to 2 inches across. Shiitake mushrooms also vary in size, with large caps reaching 2 to 3 inches in diameter. When substituting these varieties in recipes, it's important to consider their size and weight differences.
In addition to fresh mushrooms, dried and canned mushrooms offer alternative portion sizes. For example, 8 ounces of sliced fresh button mushrooms are equivalent to 1 1/2 ounces of dried mushrooms or 4 ounces of drained canned sliced mushrooms. Dried mushrooms are a concentrated form, so they require rehydration before use, typically with 3/4 cup of boiling water. This rehydration process increases their volume and weight, bringing them closer to the portion sizes of fresh mushrooms.
When planning portion sizes, it's worth noting that fresh mushrooms have a high water content and can shrink during cooking. As a reference, a pound of sliced fresh button mushrooms cooks down to about 2 cups, which is half the volume of its raw state. Therefore, it's advisable to factor in some shrinkage when determining the portion size for fresh mushrooms in cooked dishes.
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Mushroom types
Mushrooms are a versatile ingredient, adding an earthy flavour to dishes, and they come in many varieties. When cooking with mushrooms, it is important to know the different types and their measurements, as recipes may call for a specific weight or number.
Common Types of Mushrooms
- Button Mushrooms - These are the most common mushrooms available and are also known as white mushrooms or Agaricus bisporus. They have a mild flavour and can be eaten raw or cooked. They are often sold packaged whole, sliced, or chopped and can be used in soups, salads, pizzas, or stuffed dishes.
- King Oyster Mushrooms - These mushrooms have a meaty texture and are known for their versatility. They can be used in a variety of dishes, such as tacos, quesadillas, or pasta.
- Morels - Morels have an elusive honeycomb-like appearance and are prized by chefs for their unique flavour and texture.
- Portobellos - Portobellos are essentially mature button mushrooms (also known as cremini mushrooms) with a darker flesh and a premium price tag. They are larger and have a more intense flavour than their younger counterparts.
- Shiitake Mushrooms - Shiitake mushrooms have a trumpet-like shape with a depression in the centre of their caps. They are known for their firm texture and apricot-like scent. Shiitake mushrooms are often used in Asian cuisine and can be added to dishes like pasta carbonara or stir-fries.
- Enoki Mushrooms - Enoki mushrooms are small and thin, with a crisp texture and a mild flavour. They are often used in Asian dishes, particularly soups and stir-fries.
Measuring Mushrooms
When it comes to measuring mushrooms, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, 8 ounces of fresh mushrooms are equivalent to about 0.5 pounds, or 226.8 grams. This would typically yield about 2 3/4 cups of chopped mushrooms or 2 1/2 cups of sliced mushrooms. Secondly, whole mushrooms take up more space than sliced or chopped mushrooms, so the volume will vary depending on the preparation method. Finally, it's important to note that different varieties of mushrooms may have slightly different weights and volumes, so adjustments may be necessary when substituting one type of mushroom for another.
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Cooking with mushrooms
Mushrooms are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to stews. They come in many different forms: whole, sliced, chopped, dried, canned, and powdered. When cooking with mushrooms, it's important to note that they should not be crowded in the pan, as they will steam instead of brown. Additionally, it is best to keep mushrooms dry and only wash them when you are ready to use them.
Storage
Fresh mushrooms should be stored in the refrigerator unwashed and uncleaned in an open paper bag or any breathable container. They will maintain their flavour and quality for 5 to 7 days. To prolong their shelf life, you can freeze or dry them.
Common Types of Mushrooms
- Button Mushrooms: The most common mushroom variety, also referred to as \"white mushrooms\". They are the earliest growing stage of the Agaricus bisporus species.
- Cremini Mushrooms: The middle growth stage of the Agaricus bisporus species, with a slightly firmer texture and a more savoury, umami-forward flavour than button mushrooms.
- Portobello Mushrooms: The mature growth stage of the Agaricus bisporus species, with a darker flesh, an earthier flavour, and a meatier texture.
Cooking Methods
Mushrooms can be cooked in a variety of ways, including sautéing, grilling, roasting, frying, and braising. Here is a simple recipe for sautéed mushrooms:
Ingredients:
- Mushrooms
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
- Butter
- Thyme
- Lemon
- Garlic (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large, wide skillet over medium heat.
- Add the mushrooms and spread them into one layer.
- Cook without moving until browned on one side (3 to 5 minutes).
- Stir, then cook for another 3 to 5 minutes, or until mostly golden brown on all sides.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in butter, garlic, thyme, and lemon zest (optional).
This recipe can be served as a side or used as a topping for meats, potatoes, or toast.
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Frequently asked questions
8 oz of fresh mushrooms is equal to 0.5 lbs.
8 oz of sliced fresh button mushrooms is equal to 1 cup.
8 oz of chopped fresh button mushrooms is equal to about 0.8 to 1 cup.
8 oz of fresh mushrooms is equal to 1.5 oz of dried mushrooms.
