How to Store Mushrooms So They Don’t Get Slimy
Keep your fungi fresh!
Tanja Ivanova/Getty Images
With a savory, umami-rich flavor and satisfying texture, mushrooms are a staple for vegetarians and omnivores alike. For example, we swear by this Mushroom Potpie and these Wild Mushroom and Spinach Stuffed Shells when we’re looking for hearty vegetarian dinner ideas, and we love adding mushrooms to tofu and chicken dishes for extra body and nutrients. Unfortunately, mushrooms go bad fairly quickly due to their high water content, so it’s best to consume them soon after you buy them. In the meantime, follow our advice for how to store mushrooms so you aren’t left with a slimy, moldy mess.
Related:How to Store Avocados So They Stay Fresh for as Long as Possible
Tanja Ivanova/Getty Images
How to Store Whole Mushrooms
If you’ve purchased pre-packaged mushrooms, store them as they are. Their original packaging should already be ventilated to keep them dry in the fridge.
Otherwise, the best way to store whole mushrooms is in a brown paper bag lined with paper towels. There’s no need to close the bag tightly, as the airflow will help the mushrooms stay dry. Mushrooms, which are already high in water, release moisture as they sit, so they need absorbent packaging to stay fresh. Make sure not to wash the mushrooms until just before using them, as the excess water will cause them to rot more quickly. Store the mushrooms in the fridge to keep them fresher for longer. Stored this way, whole mushrooms can last for up to one week.
Related:How to Roast Mushrooms That Are Crispy and Delicious
How to Store Sliced Mushrooms
Just like whole mushrooms, it’s best to store sliced mushrooms, unwashed, in a brown paper bag lined with paper towels. If they’re pre-packaged upon purchase, leave the sliced mushrooms in their original container. Either way, keep the sliced mushrooms in the fridge, where they’ll likely last for four to five days.
Related:How to Store Garlic So It Stays Potent and Fresh
Can You Freeze Mushrooms?
Yes, you can freeze mushrooms. However, freezing them will affect the thawed mushrooms’ texture significantly, so don’t expect a crispy final product. That said, frozen mushrooms that have thawed would work well in something like a Walnut Mushroom Bolognese or, Creamy Mushroom Soup With Chives. To freeze, clean the mushrooms, then store them in an airtight, freezer-safe bag or food storage container. Stored properly, mushrooms will last in the freezer for about two months.
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