John Miller
Mushrooms are a versatile ingredient that can add a savoury, umami flavour to dishes. They can be ground into a powder and used to enhance the taste of soups, stocks, and sauces. There are several ways to grind mushrooms, including using a mortar and pestle, a coffee grinder, or a blender. Drying the mushrooms before grinding can help to preserve their flavour and nutritional value, and make it easier to achieve a fine powder. However, fresh mushrooms can also be used, and grinding them can be a way to save extra mushrooms from going bad.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Why grind mushrooms? | To make mushroom powder, which can be added to meals for a kick of plant-based protein and dietary fiber without the strong umami flavor of fresh mushrooms. |
| How to grind mushrooms? | Using a mortar and pestle, coffee grinder, blender, food processor, or spice grinder. |
| How to store mushroom powder? | Store in an airtight glass jar, away from direct heat and light. |
| Shelf life | Dehydrated mushrooms can last much longer than fresh mushrooms. If stored properly, mushroom powder can last for at least one month and up to two years. |
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What You'll Learn
Using a mortar and pestle
Firstly, it is important to ensure that your mushrooms are dry. This is crucial because mushrooms tend to become as hard as wood when dried, so grinding them in their fresh state can be challenging. Allow the mushrooms to dry completely before proceeding.
Once your mushrooms are dry, break them into smaller pieces with your fingers. The smaller the pieces, the easier they will be to grind in the mortar. You can also use scissors or a knife to cut them into finer bits. If you are using larger mushrooms, you may need to spend a few hours breaking them down into manageable sizes.
Now, you can begin grinding. Place the mushroom pieces into the mortar and use the pestle to crush and grind them. Apply pressure and twist the pestle in a circular motion while holding the base of the mortar in place. You can also press down on the pestle and twist the mortar in a back-and-forth motion. Continue this process until you achieve your desired consistency.
It is worth noting that the type of mortar and pestle you use can impact the grinding process. Some people recommend using a mortar with ridges inside, as it helps to grind the mushrooms more effectively. Others suggest that a smoother mortar surface may require more pressure to achieve the desired consistency. Additionally, a mushroom-shaped pestle with more contact surfaces can expedite the grinding process.
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Dehydrating mushrooms
Step 1: Selecting Mushrooms
Choose fresh, firm mushrooms that are free from any signs of decomposition, such as slime, wrinkles, dark spots, or odour. Most varieties of mushrooms can be dehydrated, but some, like Chanterelles, may be better frozen.
Step 2: Cleaning and Slicing
Gently clean the mushrooms with a vegetable or mushroom brush under running water. Remove any dirt or debris. Then, slice the mushrooms into uniform pieces. Thicker slices will take longer to dehydrate than thinner slices.
Step 3: Dehydrating
Place the sliced mushrooms in a single layer on the trays of your dehydrator. Set the temperature between 110°F to 130°F (43°C to 54°C). Dehydrate for 4 to 8 hours, checking periodically. The mushrooms are ready when they are brittle and break easily.
Step 4: Cooling and Storing
Once the mushrooms are fully dehydrated, allow them to cool completely before storing. Transfer the cooled mushrooms to airtight containers, vacuum-sealed bags, or glass jars. Label the containers with the contents and date of drying. Store them in a cool, dark place, away from direct light and heat, to maximise their shelf life. Properly dehydrated mushrooms can last for months.
Step 5: Rehydrating (Optional)
To use the dehydrated mushrooms, simply rehydrate them by soaking in cold or hot water for about 10 to 30 minutes. The soaking liquid will be richly flavoured and can be used for soups, stocks, and sauces. Rehydrated mushrooms will have a texture similar to fresh mushrooms and can be used in various dishes.
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Blending mushrooms
When blending mushrooms with meat, it is important to chop the mushrooms to a similar consistency as the ground meat. This can be done by hand or by using a food processor, pulsing it briefly just 4-5 times to achieve a finely chopped, crumbly consistency. The blend can then be cooked as per the recipe's instructions.
Mushrooms can also be blended into a powder form, known as mushroom powder. This involves dehydrating and finely grinding mushrooms, with the specific type of mushroom used depending on the desired flavour and aroma. For example, lion's mane powder has a subtle cocoa scent, while shiitake powder is more pungent. Mushroom powder can be purchased or made at home and stored in the fridge or freezer to maintain potency and freshness. It can then be added to soups, beans, sauces, braises, baked goods, or used as a seasoning for meat or vegetables.
Additionally, blending mushrooms can also refer to the process of creating a mushroom puree or soup. This involves cooking the mushrooms and then blending them into a smooth consistency, which can be done using a blender. This method is often used for magic mushrooms, also known as psilocybin mushrooms, to make them more palatable and to speed up the onset of their hallucinogenic effects. It is important to note that the consumption of magic mushrooms may carry risks and is illegal in some places.
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Storing mushroom powder
To store mushroom powder, it is essential to keep it in a cool, dark, and dry place. The best storage options are airtight containers, such as glass jars or vacuum-sealed bags, which prevent moisture from spoiling the powder. You can also use food-grade plastic containers or double-bag the powder by placing it in a plastic bag, squeezing out the air, and then putting it inside a glass jar for added protection.
It is recommended to use commercially cultivated mushrooms, as identifying wild mushrooms can be dangerous if you are unsure about their edibility. Additionally, ensure your storage area is clean to reduce the risk of contamination and maintain the quality of your mushroom powder.
For short-term storage, you can keep fresh mushrooms in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, for long-term storage, it is best to dry the mushrooms thoroughly before storing them. You can use a dehydrator, an oven, or simply let them air-dry. Once they are crisp, grind them into a fine powder using a food processor, blender, mortar and pestle, or spice grinder.
After grinding, check for any moisture in the powder by keeping it in a sealed container for a few days. If condensation develops, return the powder to the dehydrator until it is completely dry. Properly dried and stored mushroom powder can last for up to a year, although its flavour and nutritional benefits may start to decline over time.
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Benefits of fresh vs dried mushrooms
Fresh mushrooms are juicy, firm, and highly perishable. They have a short shelf life and will begin to decompose within hours if not refrigerated. Even once refrigerated, they only last a few days before they begin to rot. Fresh mushrooms are also rich in savoury flavour and loaded with nutrients.
Dried mushrooms, on the other hand, are perfect for long-term storage and can last for months or even years. They are highly concentrated in flavour and nutrients, making them ideal for culinary applications. Dried mushrooms are also versatile and can be used in spice blends, meat rubs, and brines. They can be added to flour for savoury baking or making fresh pasta. Additionally, dried mushrooms are economical and readily available.
Fresh mushrooms are a good option for those who prefer the juicy, firm texture and are able to consume them within a short period. They offer a more potent experience due to the presence of psilocin, which has a faster onset and stronger effects compared to psilocybin found in dried mushrooms.
Dried mushrooms, however, offer the advantage of longer storage life and enhanced flavour. They are ideal for those who want to add a savoury boost to their dishes and prefer the concentrated flavour. Dried mushrooms are also suitable for those who want the convenience of having mushrooms available year-round without worrying about spoilage.
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Frequently asked questions
Grinding mushrooms can intensify their flavour, preserve them for longer, and make them easier to incorporate into recipes.
Mushrooms should be dried before grinding. They can then be ground using a mortar and pestle, coffee grinder, blender, food processor, or spice grinder.
Earthy shiitake mushrooms are one of the most potent sources of umami, particularly when dried. They are also cheaper than some other dried mushrooms, such as porcini.
Store ground mushrooms in an airtight glass jar, away from direct heat and light. If stored properly, ground mushrooms can last for at least a month, and up to two years.
