Laura Smith
Mushrooms are a versatile ingredient, but they can be tricky to store due to their high water content and porous texture. The refrigerator is the best place to keep them, but which spot you choose impacts preservation. To keep mushrooms fresh for as long as possible, it is recommended to store them in a paper bag or paper towel-lined bag or bowl, as this absorbs moisture and keeps them slime-free. They should be placed on a shelf, not in the crisper drawer, and kept away from strong-smelling foods to prevent odour absorption. For longer-term storage, mushrooms can be frozen or dehydrated, but their texture may be compromised.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Storage Temperature | Dry, cool |
| Storage Location | Fridge |
| Storage Container | Paper bag, net bag, glass bowl, airtight container |
| Storage Duration | 3-14 days |
| Pre-Storage Treatment | Wipe with dry paper towel, do not wash |
| Post-Storage Treatment | Wash before cooking |
| Notes | Avoid moisture, strong-smelling food, and the crisper drawer |
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What You'll Learn
Store in a paper bag in the fridge
Mushrooms are versatile ingredients used in cooking. However, their high water content and porous texture make them delicate and perishable. To keep mushrooms fresh, storing them in the fridge is recommended.
If you want to store mushrooms in a paper bag in the fridge, follow these steps:
- Use whole, unwashed mushrooms.
- Wipe the mushrooms clean with a dry paper towel or dish towel. Avoid washing the mushrooms with water, as this can cause them to become mushy more quickly.
- Place the cleaned mushrooms in a paper bag. Ensure that the bag is not a plastic bag, as plastic can trap moisture and speed up spoilage.
- Fold the top of the paper bag over to seal it. The paper bag will absorb any moisture released by the mushrooms, helping to keep them fresh and slime-free.
- Place the sealed paper bag in the fridge. Avoid placing the mushrooms near strong-smelling food, as they may absorb those odors.
- Keep the mushrooms in the fridge until you are ready to use them. Raw mushrooms can last between three and seven days in the fridge, while cooked mushrooms last about three to four days.
By following these steps, you can help extend the shelf life of your mushrooms and prevent them from becoming slimy or spoiled.
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Use a net bag in a cool, dry place
To keep mushrooms fresh, one of the best methods is to use a net bag in a cool, dry place. This method works best for fresh, uncooked mushrooms.
Firstly, it is important to buy mushrooms with the stems still intact, as this helps to keep the interior of the mushroom fresh for longer. When you get home, wipe the mushrooms clean with a dry paper towel or dish towel, as washing them with water can cause them to go mushy more quickly due to their high water content and ability to act like a sponge.
Next, place the cleaned mushrooms in a net bag, such as the kind that onions are often packaged in. Hang the bag from a hook or nail in a cool, dry place. If possible, hang the bag near a window, as mushrooms will absorb vitamin D from the sunlight.
Using this method, any mushrooms that are not used right away will eventually dry out. However, they can still be reconstituted by pouring boiling water over them before use.
It is important to note that this storage method will not keep the mushrooms fresh indefinitely. For longer-term storage, consider freezing or dehydrating the mushrooms.
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Freeze them
If you have a surplus of mushrooms and there's no way you can use them up in time, you can always freeze them. Freezing mushrooms is a great way to preserve them for the long term. However, it's worth noting that freezing mushrooms may affect their texture, so it's best to use defrosted mushrooms in stocks or veggie burgers rather than frying them.
Firstly, only freeze fresh mushrooms, as fresher mushrooms tend to freeze better. Before freezing, lightly cook the mushrooms to preserve their quality and flavour. You can do this by sautéing them in butter until just cooked, or steaming them whole for 5 minutes (3 minutes if they're sliced or quartered). For improved colour post-freeze, the National Center for Home Food Preservation recommends dipping the mushrooms in a solution of 1 pint of water and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice before cooking them.
Once the mushrooms are cooked, allow them to cool, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Mushrooms can be stored in the freezer for up to 12 months.
Another option is to mince and sauté the mushrooms with onions, garlic, brandy and herbs, then purée the mixture. This option freezes well and can be used as a base for pasta fillings, sauces, spreads and pâtés.
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Dehydrate them
Dehydrating mushrooms is a great way to preserve them for future use. The process involves removing moisture from the mushrooms, which inhibits the growth of microorganisms and prolongs their shelf life. Here is a detailed guide on how to dehydrate mushrooms:
Selecting and Preparing Mushrooms:
Start by choosing fresh, locally grown mushrooms that are at their peak of quality and flavour. Avoid mushrooms that show signs of decay, mould, or bruising, as these issues may persist during the drying process. Clean the mushrooms thoroughly using a vegetable or mushroom brush to remove any dirt or debris. You can also give them a quick rinse, but make sure they are dried completely before proceeding.
Drying Equipment and Process:
The most effective way to dehydrate mushrooms is by using a food dehydrator. Dehydrators provide optimal air circulation and temperature control, ensuring even and efficient drying. If you don't have a dehydrator, you can use your oven, although it may take longer. Arrange the cleaned mushrooms on drying trays or racks, ensuring that none of the pieces overlap to allow for proper airflow. Set the temperature between 110°F to 140°F (43°C to 60°C) and let the mushrooms dry for several hours. Thicker slices may require up to 8 hours or more, while thinner slices can be dried in 4 to 6 hours.
Conditioning and Storage:
Once the mushrooms are fully dehydrated, they should be crisp and dry, similar to potato chips. Allow them to cool completely before storing. Place the dried mushrooms loosely in large glass containers or jars and cover them tightly with lids. Label the containers with the type of mushroom and the date of drying. Store the jars in a cool, dry place, away from direct light or heat. Properly dehydrated and stored mushrooms can last for at least a year.
Rehydrating Dehydrated Mushrooms:
To use your dehydrated mushrooms, simply pour boiling water over them in a heat-proof bowl and let them soak for 20 to 30 minutes. The rehydrated mushrooms will have a texture similar to fresh mushrooms and can be used in various dishes.
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Store in an airtight container
Storing mushrooms in an airtight container is a good method if they are already cooked. Cooked mushrooms can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for three to four days. However, raw mushrooms are best stored in a paper bag or paper towel-lined zip-top bag, as they are highly porous and absorbent. The paper will absorb any moisture released by the mushrooms, keeping them fresh and slime-free for longer.
If you are storing raw mushrooms, it is important to avoid washing them before storing them, as moisture is the number-one enemy of mushroom freshness. Instead, wipe them clean with a dry paper towel or dish towel. Then, place them in a paper bag, or wrap them in a paper towel and put them in a bowl in the refrigerator. If you use a bowl, make sure it is not covered, to allow for air circulation.
If you are unable to use your mushrooms within a week, you can also consider freezing them. However, fresher mushrooms tend to freeze better, so it is recommended to freeze them sooner rather than later. To freeze mushrooms, it is best to cook them first, as this will help preserve their quality and flavour. You can lightly sauté them in butter or steam them, then place them in a freezer-safe bag and store them in the freezer for up to 12 months.
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Frequently asked questions
Fresh mushrooms last between three and seven days in the fridge.
Mushrooms have a high water content and a porous texture, so it's best to store them in a paper bag or a paper towel-lined zip-top bag in the fridge. The paper absorbs the moisture released by the mushrooms, keeping them fresh for longer.
Yes, but only if the mushrooms are cooked or sliced. If storing raw mushrooms in an airtight container, they will likely turn slimy.
If you want to store mushrooms for longer than a week, you can freeze them. Lightly cook the mushrooms before placing them in a freezer bag to preserve their quality and flavour. You can also dehydrate mushrooms and store them in a mason jar.
Store mushrooms on a shelf in the fridge, not in the crisper drawer, as this is too moist of an environment.
