Keeping mushrooms fresh: Tips to avoid pests and preserve aroma
Drying is the most popular method for storing mushrooms. In this form, they possess an extraordinary aroma. We can't imagine many dishes, especially holiday ones, without them. But what can be done to ensure that mushrooms maintain their beautiful scent and, most importantly, aren't targeted by moths?
14 October 2024 13:41
Dried mushrooms are a fantastic addition to pierogi, cabbage, and aromatic sauces, and they’re also used to make mushroom soup for Christmas. Their store prices can be quite high before the holidays, so we try to stock up in advance. However, the effort put into gathering and drying mushrooms must not be wasted. Proper storage is crucial.
Dry thoroughly before placing in a jar
Before transferring mushrooms to a container, make sure they are completely dry, as even a small amount of moisture can lead to mould growth and attract pests. Dried mushrooms should be stored in an airtight, moisture-resistant glass jar that also protects against external odours. The container itself should be kept in a shaded place at room temperature, roughly 20°C (68°F). Prolonged exposure to sunlight causes mushrooms to fade and lose their aroma, and they spoil faster. However, the biggest enemy of dried mushrooms is moisture.
Dried mushrooms have hygroscopic properties, absorbing environmental moisture and accelerating rotting and mould development. Therefore, even a tightly closed container may not suffice. Throwing a handful of dry rice into the jar with dried mushrooms is beneficial. The grains effectively absorb excess moisture.
How to protect dried mushrooms from moths?
Adding spices is another trick to help extend the shelf life of dried mushrooms. The first is bay leaves, which have insecticidal properties. Their scent repels many insects, primarily moths, which can cause problems in the kitchen. Since bay leaves are highly aromatic and mushrooms quickly absorb odours, they can easily take on the distinctive notes of the spice. Placing the leaves in the jar with dried mushrooms for about a week is advisable. After this time, they can be removed, placed in a separate dish, and set next to the mushroom jars.
In addition to bay leaves, adding a few grains of allspice or cloves to the jar with dried mushrooms, as these also have insect-repelling properties. Dried lemon or orange peels are useful in the cabinets where we store jars of dried mushrooms. Moths can quickly contaminate an entire supply. Mushrooms contaminated with insect excrement and secretions are only fit for disposal. Spices like bay leaves and allspice help prevent this.
