Mushrooms are a real delicacy in our dishes, but they quickly lose their freshness if they are not stored properly. Have you ever wondered why your mushrooms become slimy and unattractive after just a few days in the fridge? Or why frozen mushrooms sometimes turn into mush instead of a juicy ingredient for risottos and sauces?
Although they are mushrooms delicate, there are several ways to keep them edible and tasty for a long time. In this article, you will learn how to properly store, freeze or dry them so that they remain fresh and full of aroma for months after picking.
Fresh mushrooms: how long do they stay edible?
Fresh mushrooms can last up to 7 days in the refrigerator if properly stored. It is important to store them in a paper bag, as this will absorb excess moisture and prevent the mushrooms from becoming slimy or moldy. Also, be careful not to store them in the vegetable drawer, as it is too humid there, and avoid contact with foods with a strong smell, which the mushrooms can absorb.
How to prolong the freshness of mushrooms?
If you want to preserve them even longer, it is best to process them as soon as possible. One of the popular methods is freezing. Before freezing them, it is recommended to blanch them - boil them quickly in boiling water (about 2 minutes) and then cool them under cold water. This prevents the mushrooms from turning into mush after thawing. Blanched mushrooms can be stored in the freezer for up to 9 months. If you freeze them raw, use them within 6 to 8 months.
Freezing mushrooms: procedure and duration
Choose firm, fresh mushrooms for freezing. First clean them, then cut into slices or cubes and blanch. After that, store them in plastic bags, where it is important to remove all the air, as this prevents the formation of ice crystals. Use thawed mushrooms immediately and do not refreeze them.
If you don't have time to blanch, you can freeze the mushrooms raw. The process involves quick freezing on a tray before bagging them. But be aware that some types of mushrooms, such as chanterelles, are not suitable for freezing, as they lose their texture.
Drying: an alternative to freezing
Drying is one of the oldest methods of storing mushrooms and allows them to be used for many years. Dried mushrooms retain their flavor, but soak them in lukewarm water before use to soften them. You can store them in hermetically sealed glass containers or in the freezer, where they retain freshness and taste.
How long do frozen mushrooms last?
Mushrooms such as porcini mushrooms can be kept frozen for up to 12 months, while more delicate species such as porcini mushrooms last for 8 to 10 months. Thawed mushrooms should not be refrozen, as they quickly lose their flavor and become inedible.
Pickling mushrooms
Pickling mushrooms is a great way to preserve their flavor and texture throughout the year. The procedure is simple: first clean the mushrooms, cut them into pieces and boil them quickly in salted water. Then put them in sterilized jars in which you have already prepared a mixture of vinegar, water and spices (such as peppercorns, bay leaves, garlic and sugar). Fill the jars with mushrooms and pour over the hot mixture, close and refrigerate. Store pickled mushrooms in a cool and dark place, and after opening, you must use them quickly.
Conclusion: Storing mushrooms properly is essential if you want to enjoy them all year round. Store fresh mushrooms in the refrigerator, freeze them for later use, or dry them for long-term storage. With the right techniques, you will preserve their taste and texture and avoid unpleasant surprises.
