Laura Smith
Mushrooms are a versatile ingredient, but they can be challenging to store due to their delicate and perishable nature. The best storage method depends on how you plan to use them and how long you need to keep them. Moisture is the number one enemy when it comes to keeping mushrooms fresh, so they should be kept dry. They also shouldn't be stored in the refrigerator's crisper drawer, as it tends to have high humidity.
How to best store gourmet mushrooms
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Container | Net bag, cloth bag, brown paper bag, open plastic bag, freezer-safe bag, airtight glass jar |
| Wrapping | Paper towels |
| Temperature | Refrigerator, freezer |
| Duration | 7-14 days, up to 12 months |
| Other | Avoid washing before storing, avoid plastic, avoid crisper drawer, avoid strong-smelling food, dry in mesh container |
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What You'll Learn
Paper bags are best for storage
Paper bags are the best option for storing gourmet mushrooms. Mushrooms are highly perishable, with a short shelf life, and are quick to spoil due to their high water content. They absorb water like sponges, so the goal of mushroom storage is to prevent them from releasing water and pulling moisture from the air. Paper bags are breathable and allow for much better airflow, creating a less damp environment for the mushrooms. The paper also absorbs any excess moisture released by the mushrooms as they age, keeping the mushrooms' surface dry and slime-free for longer.
Paper bags are preferable to plastic containers, which can trap moisture and speed up spoilage. Plastic containers can cause discoloration, mould, and slime. Paper bags are also better than storing mushrooms in the refrigerator crisper drawer, which is designed to be humid, and therefore not ideal for mushrooms.
When storing mushrooms in a paper bag, it is recommended to wrap them in paper towels to absorb excess moisture. The paper towels can then be placed in an open plastic bag, or directly into a brown paper bag. The mushrooms can be stored in the refrigerator, ideally on the bottom shelf, and will remain fresh for up to 10 days.
It is also possible to store mushrooms in a small cloth bag, a net bag, or a cardboard drinks tray. However, paper bags are the best option for ensuring gourmet mushrooms remain fresh for as long as possible.
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Avoid plastic containers
Mushrooms have a high water content, and their spongy texture means they soak up water easily. This is why moisture is the number-one enemy when it comes to keeping mushrooms fresh. Plastic containers trap moisture, causing the mushrooms to sit in a damp container or bag. This leads to discolouration, mould, and slime.
Because of this, it is best to avoid storing mushrooms in their supermarket packaging, which is usually plastic and traps moisture, contributing to quicker spoilage. The same goes for plastic wrap, which can speed up spoilage, especially if it has no holes.
If you are storing mushrooms in a refrigerator, it is best to avoid the crisper drawer, which is designed to create a humid environment. Instead, store them on the bottom shelf of your refrigerator.
For short-term storage, it is fine to keep mushrooms in their original packaging for up to three days. However, changing their container can extend their shelf life.
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Freeze mushrooms for long-term storage
Freezing is an effective method for long-term mushroom preservation. However, it is important to note that freezing may compromise the texture of the mushrooms, making them less suitable for frying. Fresh mushrooms also tend to freeze better, so it is recommended to freeze them sooner rather than later.
Before freezing, it is important to ensure that the mushrooms are dry, as even slight residual moisture can lead to freezer burn or mould issues over time. To prepare mushrooms for freezing, they should be cooked first. One method to preserve the colour of the mushrooms post-freezing is to dip them in a solution of one pint of water and one teaspoon of lemon juice before cooking. Once the cooked mushrooms have cooled, they can be placed in a freezer-safe bag and stored in the freezer for up to 12 months.
Another method is to spread sautéed mushrooms on a tray lined with parchment paper and freeze them. Once they are fully frozen, transfer the mushrooms to freezer-safe bags for more accessible storage. Frozen mushrooms are perfect for soups, stews, and stir-fries, as they can maintain their flavour even after months of storage.
Magic mushrooms, or psilocybin mushrooms, can also be frozen for long-term preservation. However, it is important to ensure that they are completely dry before freezing to prevent damage to the integrity of the compounds. Vacuum-sealing or using airtight containers are recommended for storing magic mushrooms.
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Use a net bag for vitamin D absorption
Mushrooms are a versatile ingredient with a high water content, a porous texture, and a mild flavour. However, their delicate and perishable nature means that they can be quick to spoil. To prevent this, it is important to store them correctly.
One recommended method for storing gourmet mushrooms is to use a net bag, such as the kind that onions are often packaged in. Hang the bag from a hook or a nail, preferably near a window, so that the mushrooms can absorb vitamin D from the sunlight. This method allows the mushrooms to stay fresh and dry, and any unused mushrooms can be reconstituted when needed.
Net bags are preferable to plastic containers or bags, which can trap moisture and cause the mushrooms to become discoloured, mouldy, and slimy. Mushrooms should also not be stored in the refrigerator's crisper drawer, as this tends to be the most humid part of the fridge.
If you are unable to obtain a net bag, another option is to store the mushrooms in a brown paper bag, either with or without paper towels. Paper bags help to absorb excess moisture and allow for better airflow, creating a less damp environment for the mushrooms. This method can keep mushrooms fresh for up to 10 days.
For longer-term storage, you can also freeze or dehydrate mushrooms. Freezing mushrooms can compromise their texture, so it is recommended to cook, blanch, sauté, poach, or steam them before freezing to help lock in their texture and flavour. Dehydrating mushrooms, on the other hand, better preserves their quality and flavour while indefinitely extending their shelf life.
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Store in the refrigerator
Storing gourmet mushrooms in the refrigerator is a great way to prolong their shelf life. However, it is important to avoid the crisper drawer, as this is designed to be a humid environment, which is not ideal for mushrooms. Instead, store them on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator.
When storing mushrooms in the refrigerator, it is best to use a porous container that promotes air circulation. Paper bags are a great option, as they are breathable and allow for better airflow, creating a less damp environment. This helps to prevent the mushrooms from becoming slimy, which can happen when mushrooms are stored in plastic containers or bags that trap moisture. If using a paper bag, it is also beneficial to include a paper towel, as this will help to absorb any excess moisture.
Another option for refrigerator storage is to use a net bag, such as the kind onions are often packaged in. These bags can be hung from a hook or nail, and if placed near a window, the mushrooms will also absorb vitamin D.
It is worth noting that while storing mushrooms in the refrigerator can prolong their shelf life, they should still be consumed within a certain timeframe. Whole mushrooms can last in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, but it is recommended to consume them within seven to ten days of purchase. Sliced mushrooms have a shorter shelf life and should be consumed within a week, with some batches potentially going bad within five days.
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Frequently asked questions
Whole gourmet mushrooms bought from the grocery store can last in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. However, it is recommended to consume them within seven to ten days of purchase.
The best way to store gourmet mushrooms is to keep them dry. Use a brown paper bag or paper towels for storage. Avoid washing mushrooms before storing them to extend their shelf life.
Yes, you can store gourmet mushrooms in their original packaging. However, changing their container can extend their shelf life. Wrap them in paper towels and place them in open plastic bags (paper bags are even better).
Sliced gourmet mushrooms should be consumed within three days. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Store cooked gourmet mushrooms in an airtight container, just like any other cooked food.
