How to Buy, Use, and Store Dried Mushrooms

Dried mushrooms offer all the same nutritional values that are found in fresh mushrooms. Dried mushrooms have a richer flavor than fresh mushrooms and can be stored for up to one year when stored properly. Dried mushrooms offer chefs a great way to use mushrooms all year long, no waiting for mushrooms to be in season to make your favorite soup or steak dish.

When buying dried mushrooms you will need to inspect the color:
A mushroom that is faded and dingy, whether fresh or dried, means that the mushroom has been on the store shelf for to long. These faded and dingy mushrooms will have lost some of their flavor and aroma. Choose mushrooms that have retained their bright exterior coloring.

Choose smaller packages when buying dried mushrooms:
Even though dried mushrooms can be stored for up to one year without losing their flavor it is not advisable to buy dried mushrooms in large quantities. When buying dried mushrooms choose small packages that will be used up within a few weeks. In the long run you will save money by not having to toss out any unused spoiled portions and you will enjoy tastier mushrooms.

Store your dried mushrooms in airtight containers:
Bugs love mushrooms, so it is extremely important to store your dried mushrooms in an airtight container. Tupperware is great, but if the lid is not placed securely bugs may find their way to your fragrant stash of dried mushrooms. I recommend using a locking lid container to store your dried mushrooms. The locking lids make it easy to see and hear if the container has been securely closed. Toss the complete stash of mushrooms if you find even one bug has found its way into your container.

How to prepare and use dried mushrooms:
*When using dried mushrooms for salads or pastas the dried mushrooms should be soaked in hot water for 5 to 10 minutes before adding to the recipe.

*When using dried mushrooms in soups, stews, and casseroles the dried mushrooms should be soaked in low sodium broth for 5 to 10 minutes before adding to a recipe.

*When using dried mushrooms to top a steak or gourmet dish the dried mushrooms should be soaked in wine for 5 to 10 minutes.
*In a hurry? Dried mushrooms can be covered in water and microwaved on medium for 1 to 2 minutes. Be sure to use a microwave safe dish.