Emily Johnson
Button mushrooms are a versatile ingredient, but they are delicate and perishable, so it is important to know how to store them properly. The best way to store mushrooms is to keep them in a paper bag in the refrigerator, which will allow them to breathe and prevent them from rotting or drying out. They should be stored at between 40–45 °F (4–7 °C) and will last up to a week. If you want to store them for longer, you can freeze them, but it is recommended to cook them first, as this will help preserve their quality and flavour.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Place to store | Refrigerator |
| Container type | Paper bag, net bag, plastic bag |
| Container condition | Airtight, partially open |
| Storage time | 3-7 days |
| Before storage | Don't wash, dry them |
| After storage | Freeze or dehydrate |
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Storing in a refrigerator
Storing button mushrooms in a refrigerator is an effective way to keep them fresh for longer. The ideal temperature range for storing mushrooms is between 40–45 °F (4–7 °C), which is typically achievable in a refrigerator.
When storing mushrooms in a refrigerator, it is important to avoid the crisper drawer due to its high humidity, which can cause mushrooms to spoil. Instead, they should be placed in the main compartment of the refrigerator. Whole mushrooms are preferable to sliced mushrooms as they will last longer. It is also recommended to store them in their original packaging, as this is designed to allow them to breathe while protecting them from dehydration caused by refrigeration. However, if you have bought loose mushrooms, storing them in a paper bag is ideal as it helps to absorb excess moisture, keeping the mushrooms fresh for longer.
If you wish to store sliced mushrooms, it is recommended to use an airtight container to prevent them from drying out. Sliced mushrooms should be consumed within three days, while whole mushrooms can last up to a week in the refrigerator.
It is also important to note that mushrooms should not be washed before storing as this can cause them to absorb too much water, leading to faster spoilage. Instead, they should be wiped down with a damp paper towel to remove any dirt or grime. Additionally, avoid placing mushrooms near strong-smelling food, as they can absorb those odours.
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Freezing
Once cooked, allow the mushrooms to cool, then place them on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet and flash-freeze for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer the mushrooms to a freezer bag, being sure to squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing. Frozen cooked mushrooms can be stored for up to 9-12 months and are best suited for cooked dishes such as soups, casseroles, stews, or pizza toppings. They can also be added to pasta, rice, or quinoa while boiling. Remember to leave about a 1/2-inch gap in the freezer bag as mushrooms will expand slightly when frozen.
While it is possible to freeze raw mushrooms, they will need to be sliced and flash-frozen before packing to ensure even freezing. Frozen raw mushrooms will need to be used within 6 months and are best used in cooked dishes without the need for defrosting. Simply chop them straight from the freezer and add them to your recipe.
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Drying
Firstly, choose fresh, blemish-free mushrooms that are free from mould and pests. Before drying, gently clean the mushrooms with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris. Avoid washing the mushrooms, as they absorb water easily and this will shorten their shelf life.
The thickness of your mushrooms will determine how long it takes to dry them. Some mushrooms may need to be cut into thinner slices to dry properly, while others can be dried whole.
There are several methods for drying mushrooms:
- Air drying: This low-tech method involves hanging the mushrooms in a warm, dry place with good air circulation. You can string them onto thread or lay them on a grated sheet over an empty container to allow airflow on both sides. A small fan can help speed up the process.
- Oven drying: This method is faster than air drying. Place the mushroom slices on a baking sheet and put them in a very low oven (around 150°F or 65°C), leaving the door slightly ajar for moisture to escape. However, there is a risk of over-drying or accidentally cooking the mushrooms, and oven temperatures can vary, so it's a good idea to do a test dry with just a few mushrooms first.
- Dehydrator: Using a food dehydrator is the quickest and most efficient method, but it requires a financial investment. Simply spread out your pre-dried mushrooms on the drying racks, ensuring they don't touch, and leave them to dehydrate. Many dehydrators have a timer option, which is useful if you want to dial in a specific length of time.
Once the mushrooms are completely dry, allow them to cool before transferring them to an airtight container, such as a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Store the mushrooms in a cool, dark, dry place to maximise their shelf life.
When you're ready to use your dried mushrooms, they can be eaten dry or rehydrated in warm water for about 20 minutes.
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Using a paper bag
Storing button mushrooms in a paper bag is an effective way to keep them fresh for longer. Paper bags are breathable and allow for better airflow, creating a less damp environment for the mushrooms. This is important because mushrooms have a very high moisture content and are quick to spoil.
To store button mushrooms in a paper bag, start by placing whole, unwashed mushrooms in a brown paper bag. If you have purchased loose mushrooms, you can transfer them to a paper bag lined with a paper towel. The paper towel will help to absorb any moisture, keeping the mushrooms dry and fresh for longer.
Once the mushrooms are in the bag, fold the top over to seal it. You can then place the bag in the refrigerator, avoiding the crisper drawer as this tends to be the most humid part of the fridge. Instead, store the mushrooms on the bottom shelf of the fridge.
Using this method, button mushrooms can stay fresh for up to 10 days, although it is best to eat them within five days of purchase. This is a simple and effective way to extend the shelf life of button mushrooms and prevent them from becoming slimy.
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Avoiding moisture
Moisture is the number one enemy when it comes to keeping mushrooms fresh. Mushrooms have a high water content, and their spongy texture means they are susceptible to becoming slimy or developing mould. To avoid this, it is important to promote air circulation and absorb excess moisture.
Firstly, avoid storing mushrooms in plastic containers or bags. Plastic traps moisture, causing the mushrooms to sit in a damp environment, which leads to discolouration, mould, and slime. Instead, opt for a porous container such as a paper bag. Paper bags absorb excess moisture released by the mushrooms as they age, keeping their surface slime-free for longer. You can also wrap the mushrooms loosely in a paper towel, then place them in an open plastic or brown paper bag.
Another option is to use a net bag, such as the kind onions are often packaged in. Hanging the bag from a hook or nail improves air circulation and allows the mushrooms to absorb vitamin D if placed near a window. If you are using a paper bag, it is recommended to roll down the top of the bag to keep it open, promoting further air circulation.
For longer-term storage, you can dry your mushrooms. This method better preserves the quality of the fungi while indefinitely extending their shelf life. To dry mushrooms, use a dehydrator or air-drying technique, which involves placing the mushrooms in a mesh container with good airflow for about a week. Once completely dry, store them in an airtight glass jar. Dried mushrooms have an intense umami flavour and can be reconstituted in soups, stews, sauces, or stir-fries.
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Frequently asked questions
Store button mushrooms in a partially open plastic bag in the refrigerator. The bag retains the mushroom's moisture effectively, and the refrigeration process removes excess moisture.
Button mushrooms are best stored in a paper bag, which absorbs excess moisture as mushrooms age. Avoid airtight containers, which cause spoiling and rot.
Button mushrooms should be used within a week of purchase. Sliced mushrooms should be used within three days.
Yes, button mushrooms can be frozen for up to 12 months. Lightly cook the mushrooms first to preserve their quality and flavour. Another long-term storage option is to dry the mushrooms, which better preserves their quality.
