Maximizing mushroom freshness: Storage tips for fridge and freezer
Mushrooms are a popular ingredient in many dishes. They are an excellent addition to pizza, pasta, meat dishes, and sauces. Whether grilled, fried, or baked, they are an essential part of an English breakfast. It's always disappointing to find that the mushrooms you left in the fridge are no longer edible.
Mushrooms are most often sold in plastic packages wrapped in stretch film. However, it often happens that you can't use all of them in one dish. You unwrap the film, take a few pieces, and put the rest back in the fridge. Here's how to make them last longer than 2-3 days.
How long can you keep mushrooms in the fridge?
White mushrooms can be stored in a closed package at temperatures below 36 degrees Fahrenheit for up to 4 days. Brown mushrooms will last a little longer—up to 6 days. However, there are a few conditions.
The mushrooms should not be wet. You should never wash them unless you plan to use them immediately. Unfortunately, many people make this mistake. It's best to transfer them to a glass container with a lid. Place a sheet of paper towel inside to absorb any moisture and prevent mold growth. A paper bag can also be used for storing mushrooms.
Keep the container or paper bag with mushrooms in the bottom drawer of the fridge, where it is dry and the temperature is lowest.
Can you freeze mushrooms?
An effective way to extend the shelf life of mushrooms is to freeze them. How can you do this while retaining their appearance and as many nutrients as possible? Blanching, a short heat treatment, is the answer. It helps the mushrooms maintain their natural color without losing valuable vitamins and minerals.
Before blanching, wash the mushrooms thoroughly. Then, place them in boiling water. After 2 minutes, remove them and rinse with cold water. Slice them to save space unless you prefer to keep them whole. Additionally, you can drizzle them with lemon juice.
What is the best way to freeze mushrooms?
Before placing the mushrooms in the freezer, they must be dry. Use a paper towel to remove excess water. Once prepared, spread the mushrooms on a tray and put them in the freezer for 30 minutes. After that, transfer them to an airtight container or ziplock bag designed for storing food at low temperatures.
You can store mushrooms in the freezer for up to 6 months.
