Emma Wilson
Drying mushrooms is a great way to preserve them for future use. The process involves removing moisture from the mushrooms, which can be done through various methods such as air drying, oven drying, or using a dehydrator. While air drying is a cheap and easy method, it may not always produce consistent results, especially in humid environments. Oven drying and dehydrators are faster and more effective methods, but they require more specialized equipment. Factors such as humidity, air circulation, and the thickness of mushroom slices also play a role in the drying process. Proper cleaning, storage, and rehydration techniques are additional considerations to ensure the best results and maintain food safety.
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What You'll Learn
Choose a good location
Place the mushrooms in a container that allows air to circulate around them, such as a mesh colander or a baking rack set on top of a baking sheet. Do not overcrowd the mushrooms—make sure they are in a single layer and not overlapping or touching, as this can cause moisture to become trapped and lead to mould. Covering the mushrooms and the drying rack with a "net tent" can help protect them from insects and animals.
If you are drying the mushrooms indoors, you can place them in front of a fan to speed up the drying process. A box fan placed close to the mushrooms and set on the highest setting will help wick moisture away. If your environment is particularly humid, you can place the mushrooms near a radiator or use a dehumidifier in the room.
If you are drying the mushrooms outdoors, make sure to check the weather. Air drying is most effective on sunny days with very low humidity. Avoid drying mushrooms outdoors if there is a lot of humidity in the air, as this will increase the risk of mould.
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Clean the mushrooms
To clean the mushrooms, use a brush or a dry paper towel to wipe any dirt off them. Avoid getting the mushrooms wet while cleaning them because the water could cause other competing fungi or mould to grow on the mushrooms while they are drying or after they have been stored. This extra fungus or mould could, in turn, make you ill if you eat it. If there are stubborn spots of dirt that won't be brushed away, use a damp cloth or paper towel to scrub them off. Just make sure to wipe the same spot with a dry cloth or paper towel to absorb any moisture left behind.
After cleaning, cut the mushrooms into slices to speed up the drying process. The thicker the mushrooms, the longer it takes for them to dry out. Slice them into pieces about 1/8 inch (0.3 cm) thick or, depending on their shape, cut them right down the middle.
Once cleaned and sliced, you can begin the drying process.
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Slice the mushrooms
Slicing the mushrooms is an important step in the drying process. The thicker the mushrooms, the longer they will take to dry. Therefore, it is recommended to cut them into slices that are about 1/8-inch (0.3 cm) thick, or 1/2-inch thick if you prefer. Depending on the shape of the mushrooms, you can also cut them right down the middle.
It is important to ensure that the mushrooms are evenly sliced, as this will help them dry uniformly. It is also crucial not to stack or overcrowd the mushroom slices, as this can trap moisture and lead to uneven drying. Instead, spread the slices out flat in a single layer on a drying rack, baking sheet, or another suitable surface.
If you choose to dry the mushrooms in an oven, you can place them directly on an ungreased baking sheet. However, if you plan to air dry the slices, it is recommended to use a mesh colander or a similar container that allows for good airflow underneath the mushrooms.
Additionally, when slicing the mushrooms, it is important to ensure that they are clean and dry. Avoid washing them under running water, as this can introduce excess moisture and potentially promote the growth of unwanted fungi or mould. Instead, use a brush or a dry paper towel to gently wipe away any dirt or debris from the mushroom surfaces.
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Use a fan
Air drying is the cheapest and easiest way to dry mushrooms. However, it may not always be effective in humid environments. To dry mushrooms with a fan, follow these steps:
Preparation
First, ensure that your mushrooms are fresh. Do not use mushrooms that are past their prime. Clean the mushrooms with a brush or a dry paper towel. Avoid getting the mushrooms wet while cleaning them, as this can cause mould to grow.
Slice the mushrooms into 1/8- to 1/2-inch pieces. If your mushrooms are small, you can cut them in half. Ensure that the pieces are evenly sized to promote even drying.
Drying
Place the sliced mushrooms on a piece of cardboard or a dry towel, ensuring that they are spread out and not touching. Place the cardboard or towel in a well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight. Position a fan so that it blows a constant airflow over the mushrooms. If your environment is humid, place the cardboard or towel near a radiator and set up the fan to blow air over it.
Check on your mushrooms every day. They should be dry in a few hours, but thicker slices may take longer. The drying process is complete when the mushrooms snap easily when bent.
Storage
Once the mushrooms are completely dry, store them in airtight containers. Keep the containers in a cool, dark location until you are ready to use them.
Dried mushrooms can be rehydrated and used in various dishes, such as soups, risottos, and pasta. They can also be ground into a powder and added to soups and stocks.
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Store in an airtight container
Once your mushrooms are completely dry, it's time to store them in an airtight container. Airtight containers are essential to prevent oxygen, moisture, and light—three factors that can degrade mushrooms—from reaching them. An airtight mason jar or bottle is much more effective at keeping out oxygen than a plastic bag or Ziploc bag, which are usually not completely airtight and can let light in.
When storing your dried mushrooms, keep them in a cool, dry, and dark place, such as a kitchen cupboard. This will help maximise their shelf life by keeping them away from direct light, heat, and moisture. Exposure to excess light will speed up the degradation process, and moisture will pose a contamination risk.
To further extend the shelf life of your dried mushrooms, you can add a desiccant, silica packet, or some rice to the container. These will help absorb any remaining moisture and keep your mushrooms dry. Remember to inspect your mushrooms regularly for any signs of spoilage, such as mould, discoloration, or a bad smell, and always label your containers with the date of storage.
Properly stored dried mushrooms can remain potent for several months or even up to a year. If you plan to rehydrate your mushrooms for cooking, simply soak them in warm water for 1-2 hours, and use the flavourful soaking liquid in your dish if possible.
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Frequently asked questions
Choose a well-ventilated area with good airflow and protection from moisture, insects, and animals. Slice the mushrooms into thin pieces and lay them out flat, ensuring they do not overlap. Let them air-dry for 7-10 days, or until they are dry to the touch and do not give when squeezed.
Yes, you can
Yes, you can use a
Fully dried mushrooms will be very fragrant and will snap when bent. They should feel like light rocks and not give at all when squeezed.
Store dried mushrooms in an
