So, you just got a delivery of mushrooms. It could be that standard creminis, delicate enokis, or something finer like lion’s mane. The box comes, and you unpack it, and everything is gorgeous.
Then there is the big question: how to keep them fresh for the longest time possible. Mushrooms are delicate. But under proper care, you can prolong their life and, at the same time, retain their taste and texture. Here is how:
Keep them in the refrigerator
Mushrooms should be stored in your fridge, but it depends on the location. The main compartment is better than the crisper drawer. Why? Mushrooms do not like crispers since they usually contain more humidity.
Keep the mushroom paper bag on a shelf with free circulation of air. Preferably, do not store them together with high-odor foods such as onions or garlic. This is because mushrooms are known to take up the scent.
Don’t wash them right away
You may be tempted to rinse mushrooms immediately after unpacking them, but you should not give in. Mushrooms resemble small sponges. They absorb water fast, and this may cause them to be slimy when kept wet.
Rather, clean them just prior to cooking. When you are ready to use them, it takes a few seconds to clean them with a little water or a wet cloth.
Skip the plastic
The biggest mistake so many people commit is to keep the mushrooms in the plastic wrap or the bag that the mushroom delivery company brought them in. The mushrooms have to breathe. They are not airtight. Thus, when packed in an airtight container, they gather moisture and become spoiled very easily.
Rather, put your mushrooms in a paper bag. Paper draws any excess moisture and provides them with a slightly airy atmosphere. Not so much as to dry them, but not so little as to leave them dry.
Freeze for longer storage
When using mushrooms, you may not be able to consume all of them before they begin to lose their form. You can freeze them. But there is a trick: do not freeze them raw. The mushrooms are best frozen after they have been cooked lightly.
It is best to sauté them with no oil or butter until most of the water evaporates. Then allow them to cool down. After that, freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags. By doing so, you will have mushrooms ready to either add to soups, stews, or stir-fries.
Use containers to store prepped mushrooms
Maybe you prefer to prepare in advance by slicing or chopping. In that case, place your cut mushrooms in a loosely covered dish lined with a paper towel. The paper towel will absorb the surplus moisture. The lid, which is not airtight, allows air to move.
Ready-prepared mushrooms do not have the same shelf life as whole mushrooms, and should be consumed in two to three days.
Keep an eye on them
Finally, monitor your mushrooms in storage. Mushrooms will not last long, even with the best storage. Test them after every couple of days. When they begin to get slimy, discoloured, or stinky, then it is time to compost them. The fresher they are, the better the taste will be.
