Refrigerator hack: Dry mushrooms for year-round flavour and aroma

Mushroom season is a true celebration for many. However, gathering a basket full of woodland treasures is just the beginning. It is worth thinking about drying mushrooms to enjoy their flavour all year round. Although traditionally, they are dried in the sun or the oven, there is a much simpler and more efficient method—drying them in the refrigerator.

Anyone who has returned from mushroom picking with a full basket of woodland treasures knows how valuable a good storage method is. Drying mushrooms is one of the best ways to preserve their flavour and aroma for a long time. Surprisingly, we don't always have to use traditional methods or invest in special equipment. You only need a refrigerator and patience to effectively dry mushrooms with minimal effort. Here is a clever and quick mushroom drying method, perfect for busy people.

Drying mushrooms in the refrigerator – A simple way to succeed

It may seem unusual, but the refrigerator is an excellent place to dry mushrooms. Thanks to the low temperature and appropriate humidity, mushrooms dry slowly and evenly, retaining their aroma and nutritional value.

How to prepare mushrooms for drying

    
• Cleaning: Mushrooms should be thoroughly cleaned by removing soil and any contaminants. It is best to do this gently with a soft brush.
• Slicing: Slice the mushrooms into thin slices approximately half a centimetre (0.2 inches) thick. This will speed up the drying process.
• Baking sheets: Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Spread the sliced mushrooms on them, keeping small gaps between each piece.

Drying in the refrigerator – Step-by-step

1. Moisture absorber: The key element of this process is a moisture absorber. You can use special sachets in stores or home remedies such as a bowl of salt or rice. Place the moisture absorber at the bottom of the refrigerator.
2. Arranging the mushrooms: Place the baking sheets with mushrooms on the top shelves of the refrigerator. This will ensure the best air circulation for them.
3. Patience: Drying in the refrigerator is a rather slow process. Depending on the size of the mushrooms and the humidity in the refrigerator, it can take from several days to up to two weeks.
4. Monitoring: Regularly check the mushrooms and turn them to ensure even drying.

How to check if the mushrooms are dry? Finished mushrooms should be brittle and break easily. If they are still flexible, it means they require further drying.