Emma Wilson
Oyster mushrooms are fleshy and meaty and are delicious when stir-fried, added to casseroles, or used in stews. Fresh oyster mushrooms only last 5 to 7 days, but drying them correctly can extend their shelf life to 6 months or more. In this article, we will discuss the various methods for drying oyster mushrooms, including the use of ovens, wire racks, dehydrators, and air drying. We will also provide tips on cleaning, slicing, and storing dried oyster mushrooms, as well as suggestions for rehydrating them for cooking.
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What You'll Learn
Cleaning and preparing the mushrooms
Oyster mushrooms are highly perishable, so it's important to clean, dry, and store them correctly. Before drying oyster mushrooms, they should be cleaned and free of any debris. Here is a step-by-step guide to cleaning and preparing oyster mushrooms for drying:
Cleaning Oyster Mushrooms:
First, cut the mushrooms off the central stem. Oyster mushrooms grow in clusters around a thicker central stem. Cut off the smaller individual stems and caps from the thick main stem and discard it. You can save the main stem to make stock for soup, although it does not have a desirable flavor for eating. Next, cut off any parts of the mushrooms that are slimy, mushy, or have black spots.
If your mushrooms are still dirty, place them in a colander or strainer and rinse them under cool running water. Shake the strainer or colander to drain the excess water. If you have a salad spinner, you can use it to spin the mushrooms dry. If you do not have a salad spinner, bundle the mushrooms gently into a thin cotton dish towel and swing them outside. If you picked wild mushrooms, inspect them carefully for dirt and insects, especially in the gills, and always rinse them before using.
Avoid soaking the mushrooms in water, as they are porous and will absorb the liquid. Even rinsing them will cause them to absorb some water, so be sure to use minimal water and dry them thoroughly before cooking.
Preparing Oyster Mushrooms for Drying:
Before drying, make sure your mushrooms are completely dry. Whole oyster mushrooms may be too large to dry properly, so it is recommended to cut them into thin slices about one-eighth to one-quarter inch thick. This will ensure they dry evenly and thoroughly. Thin slices will also make them easier to store and use when cooking.
Now that your mushrooms are clean and prepared, they are ready for the drying process.
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Using a dehydrator
Drying oyster mushrooms in a dehydrator is a simple process that allows you to preserve them for future use. Here is a step-by-step guide to achieving the best results:
Cleaning and Preparing the Oyster Mushrooms:
Start by cleaning your oyster mushrooms. Contrary to popular belief, raw mushrooms do not absorb lots of water during a quick rinse. Use cool running water and gently scrub them with a mushroom brush or a soft, dry brush to remove any dirt. Make sure to get rid of all the dirt and grime.
Slicing the Mushrooms:
After cleaning, slice the mushrooms into pieces. The thickness of the slices can vary between 1/8 inch to 1/2 inch thick. Keep in mind that thicker slices will take longer to dry, so consider your desired drying time when slicing. You may also want to consider how you plan to use the mushrooms later; if you prefer larger mushroom pieces in your dishes, opt for thicker slices.
Arranging the Mushrooms in the Dehydrator:
Place the cleaned and sliced mushrooms on the dehydrator trays, ensuring that none of the pieces overlap or touch each other. This arrangement allows for optimal airflow, ensuring faster and more even drying. If the pieces overlap, some areas may retain moisture.
Setting the Dehydrator Temperature:
Set your dehydrator to a temperature of around 110°F (or follow the specific instructions provided with your dehydrator). This temperature is ideal for effectively drying the mushrooms.
Drying Time:
The drying process will vary depending on the thickness of your mushroom slices. For 1/4-inch slices, the drying time is typically 4 to 6 hours, while thicker slices can take up to 8 hours. It is important to ensure that the mushrooms are completely dry before proceeding to the storage step.
Cooling and Storing the Dried Mushrooms:
Once the mushrooms are dry, allow them to cool completely. Then, transfer them to airtight glass jars and cover them tightly with lids. Label the jars with the contents, including the type of mushroom and the date of drying. Store the jars away from direct light or heat.
Rehydrating the Dried Mushrooms:
To use your dehydrated oyster mushrooms, simply pour boiling water over them in a heat-proof bowl. Let them soak for 20 to 30 minutes. You can then drain the liquid, saving it for soup stocks or sauces, as it will be rich in flavour. Use the rehydrated mushrooms as you would fresh mushrooms in your favourite recipes.
Drying oyster mushrooms in a dehydrator is a straightforward and effective way to preserve this delicious ingredient for future culinary adventures.
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Air drying
Cleaning and Preparation:
Before drying, it is important to clean the oyster mushrooms thoroughly. Use a soft, dry brush, such as the kind that comes with a mushroom knife, to gently remove any grit or dirt. Avoid rinsing the mushrooms under running water, as they can become slimy and difficult to handle. If you need to wash them, be sure to pat them dry with kitchen paper and use them immediately or proceed to dry them.
Oyster mushrooms can be quite large, so it is recommended to cut them into strips or smaller pieces before drying. This will not only make the drying process more efficient but also make the mushrooms easier to store and use in cooking later on.
To air-dry oyster mushrooms, spread the cleaned and prepared mushrooms in a single layer on a wire rack or a clean, dry baking sheet. This allows warm air to circulate around the mushrooms effectively. Place them in a warm, dry, and well-ventilated area, such as an airing cupboard, where they can remain undisturbed for several days.
The drying time will depend on the climate and conditions of your location. In arid climates or during hot weather, the mushrooms may dry within three days. However, in humid or cool conditions, air drying may not be as effective, and an alternative method such as oven drying may be more suitable.
Storage:
Once the oyster mushrooms are completely dry, they will have shrunk significantly in size. Store them in clean, dry, airtight containers such as mason jars or labelled bags. Proper storage will ensure that your dried oyster mushrooms remain usable for six months or more.
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Drying in the oven
Drying oyster mushrooms in the oven is a simple process that requires little preparation. First, ensure that the mushrooms are fresh and free of debris. Use a brush to gently scrub and remove any dirt. Wet mushrooms can be slimy, so it is best to avoid rinsing them under the tap. Cut the mushrooms into strips about 1/8 inch thick, as thicker slices will take longer to dry.
Next, preheat your oven to a low temperature. The ideal temperature range is between 125°F and 175°F (52°C and 80°C). Place the mushrooms in a single layer on a lined baking sheet, ensuring none of the pieces overlap. If your oven has a convection function, use it. Prop the oven door open slightly with a wooden spoon or pot holder to allow moisture to escape.
The drying process will take several hours, depending on the thickness of the mushrooms and the humidity. Flip the mushrooms over every hour and continue drying until they are brittle and break easily. This may take 4 to 8 hours, or even up to 12 hours for thicker slices. Remove the mushrooms from the oven and let them cool before checking if they are completely dry. If not, return them to the oven for another 30 minutes, repeating the process until they are dry.
Once the mushrooms are fully dehydrated, they will keep well when stored in covered glass jars. Be sure to let the mushrooms cool completely before transferring them to the jars and covering them tightly with lids. Label the jars with the variety of mushroom and the date of drying. Store the jars away from direct light or heat, and use the dried mushrooms within a year.
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Storing dried mushrooms
When storing dried mushrooms, it is best to avoid using plastic bags or containers as they can trap moisture and lead to a shorter shelf life. Instead, dried mushrooms can be stored in glass jars or paper bags. If using a jar, consider adding a paper towel at the bottom to absorb any residual moisture. Labelled mason jars are a great option for storing dried mushrooms, ensuring they are kept dry and organised.
Paper bags are ideal for storing dried mushrooms as they allow for air circulation and prevent the mushrooms from drying out too quickly. Brown paper bags are particularly effective in absorbing excess moisture. When using paper bags, it is recommended to store the mushrooms in a cool, dry place like the pantry or the vegetable compartment of the fridge.
Dried mushrooms can also be powdered and stored in airtight containers. Powdered mushrooms can be used to flavour dishes and thicken sauces or soups. However, it is important to label the containers to avoid confusion, as different types of mushrooms can look similar when dried and powdered.
Overall, storing dried mushrooms in a cool, dry place, such as a pantry or refrigerator, and using breathable containers like paper bags or jars, will help maintain their quality and extend their shelf life.
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Frequently asked questions
Fresh oyster mushrooms last for 5-7 days in the fridge before they turn bad.
Commercial producers use vacuum or dehydrating equipment to dry oyster mushrooms. At home, you can use an oven set to a very low temperature, or a food dehydrator.
Before drying, clean the mushrooms with a brush to remove any grit and dirt. Do not rinse them under the tap as they will become slimy. Cut the mushrooms into thin slices or strips to ensure even drying.
Once the mushrooms are completely dry, store them in an airtight container, like a mason jar. For longer shelf life, vacuum seal the container and store in a cool, dry place.
