Mushrooms will stay fresh for up to a week with an easy storage method that avoids a common mistake many people make.
Mushrooms are a beloved ingredient in countless recipes, from soups to stir-fries and even as a rich addition to steak sauces, which is why many of us keep a stash in the fridge for culinary exploits. But did you know that a simple storage blunder could be causing your fungi to spoil faster?
Mushroom expert Elliot Webb from Urban Farm-It has dished out his top advice to keep your mushrooms fresher for longer, preventing them from turning slimy or losing moisture too soon. He said: “Mushrooms are incredibly delicate due to their high water content, which makes proper storage essential to maintaining their freshness.
“One of the most common mistakes people make is leaving them in the plastic packaging they come in, as this traps moisture and accelerates spoilage. Instead, transferring them to a paper bag lined with kitchen towel provides better airflow and absorbs excess moisture, significantly extending their shelf life.”
For those looking to maximise their mushroom’s lifespan, keeping them whole and unwashed in the fridge can see them last up to a week, a stark contrast to sliced mushrooms which often only stay fresh for a day or two. So remember, according to our expert, the secret to mushroom longevity lies in keeping them whole and dry until it’s time to cook.
Pre-washing can cause them to spoil faster, but if your mushrooms start getting soft, they’re not ready for the bin just yet. They’re perfect for using in cooked dishes like risotto, stir-fries, and soups, reports the Express.
Cooking isn’t only a good way to enhance their flavour, but it also reduces food waste. Even after being harvested, mushrooms are essentially living organisms that require the right storage environment to keep well.
By making some simple adjustments, you can prolong their freshness and cut down on unnecessary waste. According to the expert: “Mushroom growing kits are also an excellent way to reduce waste and your carbon footprint. By growing at home, you’re minimising packaging waste and the environmental impact of transportation.
“Plus, they’re incredibly rewarding – watching your mushrooms grow is not only fascinating but also a great way to reconnect with nature.”