What is the best way to preserve mushrooms?

by Cynthia
(Nova Scotia)

QUESTION:

From what I have been learning so far, fresh mushrooms have a very short shelf-life. I’ve already noticed that when I buy mushrooms and put them in my fridge, they begin to get soft after just a few days.

Can you suggest some ways I can preserve mushrooms so they last a lot longer than that?

Thanks!


ANSWER:

There are several methods to preserve mushrooms, depending on how you plan to use them and how long you want them to last.

One popular method is drying mushrooms.

This can be done by slicing the mushrooms and laying them out on a clean towel or paper to dry in a warm, dry place. Once they are dry, they can be stored in an airtight container for several months. Dried mushrooms can be reconstituted by soaking them in water for a few minutes before using them in a recipe. Alternatively… and this is what I do… you can use a food dehydrator.

Another method is freezing mushrooms.

They can be washed, sliced or whole, blanched or not and stored in airtight containers or freezer bags. Frozen mushrooms will last for several months in the freezer and can be used in a variety of recipes such as soups, stews, and pasta dishes.

Canning is also a great method to preserve mushrooms.

They can be canned in jars with a vinegar-based marinade or a tomato-based sauce. They will last for several months in a cool, dark place, and can be used as an ingredient in many dishes or as a topping for pizza, sandwiches and more.

Fermenting mushrooms is another way to preserve them.

They can be pickled in a vinegar or brine solution and will last for several months in the fridge. Fermented mushrooms can be added to sandwiches, salads or eaten as a snack.

It's important to note that when preserving mushrooms, it's essntial to use clean equipment and to make sure the mushrooms are fresh and properly cleaned before preserving them. Additionally, it's important to monitor the jars/containers for any signs of spoilage such as mold, discoloration, and off odors.

If you want to use a food dehydrator, there are plenty of model to choose from on Amazon.