Laura Smith
The button mushroom, also known as the white mushroom, is the most commonly consumed mushroom variety worldwide. They are easy to cultivate, making them affordable and widely available. When selecting button mushrooms, look for those that feel firm and have consistent colouring. Avoid mushrooms with inconsistent colouring and damp, dark spots, as these may be past their prime. To clean button mushrooms, trim the woody part of the stem, then use a damp cloth or brush to gently wipe away any remaining dirt. Alternatively, quickly rinse them with cold water and dry them with a salad spinner or cloth. When cooking, spread the mushrooms in a single layer in a pan to ensure they brown rather than steam. You can also sauté, roast, or stir-fry button mushrooms and add them to dishes like pasta, stir-fries, salads, and sandwiches.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Picking technique | Twist the mushroom or cut it at the base with a sharp knife |
| Harvest time | When the mushrooms reach full size or stop growing |
| Harvest sign | Look for small pinkish-white balls (primordia) where you slit the bag |
| Storage | Keep in cool temperatures in a refrigerator, in a brown paper bag |
| Cleaning | Use a damp paper towel to brush off dirt; avoid submerging in water or rinsing unless very dirty |
| Cooking | Sauté, roast, stir-fry, bake, or eat raw |
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What You'll Learn
- Picking technique: twist or cut at the base with a sharp knife
- When to harvest: look for pinkish-white balls (primordia)?
- How to store: keep in a refrigerator in a paper bag to avoid spoilage?
- How to clean: use a brush or damp cloth to remove dirt?
- Cooking method: sauté or roast and use in pasta, stir-fry, risotto, soup, quiche, veggie patties, sandwiches, etc
Picking technique: twist or cut at the base with a sharp knife
Picking button mushrooms requires a gentle hand and a sharp knife. When the mushrooms have reached full size, it's time to harvest them. The picking technique involves either gently twisting the mushroom or using a sharp knife to cut it at the base. If you choose to twist, grasp the cluster gently but firmly and rotate it until it releases from the base. Alternatively, a sharp knife can be used to carefully cut through the stem at the base of the mushroom. This method ensures that the mushroom is cleanly separated from its growing medium without damaging the underlying structures.
It is important to act with precision and care when picking button mushrooms to avoid any unnecessary damage to the surrounding environment or the mushrooms themselves. By using the twist or cut technique, you can effectively harvest the mushrooms while preserving the integrity of the growing kit or natural habitat. This method also helps to ensure that the mushrooms remain intact and are not crushed or bruised during the picking process.
The base of the mushroom, or the stipe, is the optimal location for applying the twisting or cutting motion. By focusing on this area, you can efficiently detach the mushroom from its attachment point while minimising any potential harm to the cap or delicate gills underneath. This technique is particularly useful when harvesting button mushrooms, as it allows for a clean and precise harvest.
Additionally, the twist or cut technique can be adjusted based on the size and maturity of the button mushrooms. For smaller or younger mushrooms, a gentle twist may be sufficient to detach them from the base. On the other hand, larger or more mature mushrooms may require the assistance of a sharp knife to cleanly sever the connection at the base. This flexibility in the picking technique allows for a more tailored approach to harvesting button mushrooms.
In summary, the picking technique of twisting or cutting at the base with a sharp knife is a delicate and precise method for harvesting button mushrooms. By following this technique, growers can ensure the mushrooms are picked at the optimal time while preserving the quality and integrity of the mushrooms and their growing environment. This approach contributes to a successful and sustainable mushroom-picking process.
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When to harvest: look for pinkish-white balls (primordia)
Knowing when to harvest your mushrooms is a crucial step in the process of growing button mushrooms. Typically, you should start by looking for small pinkish-white balls, also known as primordia. These will appear where you slit the bag, approximately two weeks after starting the mushroom kit.
The primordia are the first visible sign of mushroom growth, and they indicate that the mushrooms are beginning to form. At this stage, the mushrooms are still very small and immature. However, they will grow rapidly and reach full size within a matter of days.
As the mushrooms develop, you will notice that their "spines" begin to elongate. This is another critical indicator that it's time to harvest. The "spines" are the stems of the mushrooms, and when they lengthen, it means the mushrooms are mature and ready for picking.
Harvesting at the right time is essential for ensuring the best quality and flavour. Picking the mushrooms when they are fully grown or when their growth starts to slow will result in a bountiful and tasty crop. So, keep a close eye on your mushroom kit and be ready to twist or cut those delicious fungi free when the time is right!
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How to store: keep in a refrigerator in a paper bag to avoid spoilage
Mushrooms are a versatile ingredient, but they are also delicate and perishable. To avoid spoilage, it is important to store them correctly.
Button mushrooms should be kept in a refrigerator, as they need to be stored in cool temperatures. The best way to store them is in a paper bag, which allows the mushrooms to breathe and prevents the buildup of moisture. Plastic bags should be avoided, as they trap moisture, leading to discolouration, mould, and slime. Paper bags are a better option, but if you want to be extra cautious, you can line the bag with paper towels to absorb any excess moisture.
It is best to eat button mushrooms within five days of purchasing them, but storing them in a paper bag can extend their shelf life. Whole mushrooms should be used within a week of purchase, while sliced mushrooms should be used within three days. If you are unable to use them within this time frame, you can consider freezing or drying them.
To freeze mushrooms, it is best to cook them first by lightly sautéing them or steaming them. This will help preserve their quality and flavour. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag and store them in the freezer for up to 12 months. Dried mushrooms can be stored at room temperature and will last up to three years if stored properly.
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How to clean: use a brush or damp cloth to remove dirt
When it comes to cleaning button mushrooms, it's important to use either a brush or a damp cloth to remove any dirt. This method is preferred over rinsing with water, as mushrooms can absorb water, becoming squeaky and less flavoursome. They may also discolour when washed.
To clean your mushrooms, start by trimming the woody part of the stem. Then, use a brush or damp cloth to gently wipe each mushroom, removing any dirt. If your mushrooms are particularly dirty, you may need to judge whether a quick rinse with cold water is necessary. If you do rinse them, be sure to dry them quickly with a salad spinner or cloth.
Using a brush or damp cloth allows you to effectively clean your mushrooms without compromising their texture and flavour. This method is especially recommended if you plan to eat the mushrooms raw, as part of a crudité plate.
It is worth noting that mushrooms should feel firm and have consistent colouring. Inconsistent colouring and damp-looking dark spots could indicate that they have been sitting for too long. Remember to store mushrooms properly in the refrigerator, in a brown paper bag, and use them within a few days of purchase to ensure freshness.
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Cooking method: sauté or roast and use in pasta, stir-fry, risotto, soup, quiche, veggie patties, sandwiches, etc
To pick button mushrooms, gently twist the mushroom or cut it at the base with a sharp knife. Harvest the mushrooms when they reach full size or stop growing.
Button mushrooms are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are some cooking methods and recipe ideas for using button mushrooms:
Sautéing
Sautéing is a great way to cook button mushrooms and unlock their flavour. To sauté button mushrooms, heat a mixture of olive oil and butter in a pan. Add sliced mushrooms and other ingredients such as garlic, teriyaki sauce, and red wine. Cook until the mushrooms are tender and browned. Sautéed mushrooms can be served as a side dish or used in recipes such as pasta, sandwiches, or veggie patties.
Roasting
Roasting button mushrooms in a moderately heated oven can transform them from bland to deeply flavoured and intensely savoury. Drain off the liquid partway through the roasting process to promote browning and speed up cooking time. Roasted mushrooms can be used in pasta, stir-fries, or risotto.
Pasta
Mushroom pasta is a delicious and juicy dish that can be made with button mushrooms. Sauté the mushrooms in butter and olive oil to add flavour and prevent dryness. Add other ingredients such as thyme, cream, and asparagus for extra indulgence.
Stir-Fry
Button mushrooms are an excellent addition to stir-fries. Lightly wash the mushrooms and slice them into bite-sized pieces. Add them to a hot wok or frying pan with oil and cook until they are deep brown. Remove the mushrooms from the pan before adding them back in just before serving to keep them from becoming slimy.
Risotto
Mushrooms add an earthy, savoury flavour to risotto, making it a perfect complement to main dishes. Sauté the mushrooms in olive oil before adding them to the risotto. Use a combination of portobello and white mushrooms for the best flavour.
Soup
Button mushrooms are a great addition to mushroom soup, providing earthy notes that pair well with a rich broth. Sauté the mushrooms with other ingredients such as shallots, garlic, and carrots. Add broth and simmer until the soup is creamy and smooth.
Quiche
Mushroom quiche is a versatile dish that can be made with button mushrooms. Cook the mushrooms before adding them to the quiche to bring out their umami flavour and remove excess moisture. Combine the cooked mushrooms with eggs, milk, cheese, and herbs for a rich and flavourful quiche.
Veggie Patties
Button mushrooms can be used to make vegetarian or vegan patties. Combine the mushrooms with eggs, bread crumbs, cheese, onions, flour, and seasonings. Shape the mixture into patties and sauté the mushrooms and onions before adding them to the patty mixture to prevent a mushy texture. Cook the patties in a skillet until crisp and browned.
Sandwiches
Sliced button mushrooms can be sautéed with onions, garlic, and spices to create a delicious sandwich filling. Spread mayonnaise, strained yoghurt, or mustard on toasted bread and add the mushroom filling with lettuce, onions, and tomatoes.
These are just a few ideas on how to use button mushrooms in your cooking. Get creative and experiment with different recipes and flavour combinations!
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Frequently asked questions
About two weeks after starting your kit, look for small pinkish-white balls (primordia) where you slit the bag. Harvest when the “spines” of the mushroom elongate and the mushrooms reach full size or stop growing.
You can gently twist the mushroom or cut it at the base with a sharp knife. Rotate and pull them up gently.
Mushrooms should be purchased a few days maximum before using them. They are delicate and should be kept in cool temperatures, which means the refrigerator, in a brown paper bag.
Use a damp paper towel to brush off any dirt. Avoid submerging them in water or rinsing them as they absorb water and this can affect their texture and flavour. If your mushrooms are very dirty, give them a quick rinse with cold water and dry them with a salad spinner or cloth.
