Ever wonder how to pick the best mushrooms and keep them fresh for longer? Whether you're a kitchen newbie or a seasoned chef, here’s a quick guide on how to shop, clean, and store your shrooms the right way!

Fresh mushrooms deserve a little care. The right storage, cleaning, and handling can make all the difference in preserving their flavour, texture, and shelf life. Simply keep them in their original packaging or a paper bag in the refrigerator, and they'll stay fresh for up to a week. 

Step 1 : How to Choose Fresh Mushrooms

When shopping for mushrooms, look for ones that are plump, firm, and free from blemishes. They should have a fresh, earthy aroma - no funky smells please! For button mushrooms, closed caps usually indicate a milder flavour, while open caps with visible gills offer a richer, more developed taste. Steer clear of mushrooms that look wrinkled, shrivelled, discoloured, or slimy, as these are signs they've passed their prime.

(With our gourmet farm-fresh mushrooms, you don’t have to worry about picking your own - we’ve done it for you!)

Step 2 : How to Clean Mushrooms

Mushrooms are best cleaned with a soft brush, dry paper towel, or damp cloth to gently remove any dirt. They absorb water easily, so avoid soaking or washing them unless you have to. If you do rinse them, do it quickly just before cooking and pat them dry.

Trim any tough stems before use - for shiitake mushrooms, save the stems to add depth of flavour to soups and broths. Portobello gills are completely edible, but you can remove them if you prefer a smoother texture.

Step 3 : How to Store Mushrooms

Store mushrooms in their original packaging or a paper bag in the refrigerator to help them stay fresh for longer. Most fresh mushrooms will keep well for up to a week when stored properly, though more delicate varieties like oyster mushrooms are best enjoyed fresh within 3-5 days.

Can You Freeze Mushrooms?

Fresh mushrooms aren’t always freezer-friendly, but dried mushrooms make for an excellent pantry staple! Add them to stocks, ramen, or rice dishes.

Step 4 : Avoid Common Storage Mistakes

While mushrooms are forgiving, there are still some things you must not do. Avoid storing mushrooms in airtight containers or plastic bags, as trapped moisture can make them spoil quickly. Don't wash them before refrigerating - clean them just before cooking!

Think your mushrooms have gone bad? Fresh mushrooms should be firm, dry, and earthy-smelling. If they become slimy, wrinkled, develop dark or unusual colour changes, give off a sour or unpleasant odour, or show signs of mould, it's time to throw them away!

Pro Tip : If your mushrooms feel damp, transfer them to a paper bag lined with a paper towel. The paper absorbs excess moisture, helping keep the mushrooms fresh for longer!

Shop our shrooms here and follow these simple tips to enjoy the delicious versatility they bring to your dishes. From Lion’s Mane to Shiitake to White Oyster, we’ve much for you to discover!

FAQs

How long do fresh mushrooms last in the fridge?

Fresh mushrooms typically last 5-7 days when stored in the refrigerator in their original packaging or a paper bag.

Should I wash mushrooms before storing them?

Never! Wash mushrooms only before cooking, as excess moisture can make them spoil faster.

Why do mushrooms turn slimy?

Sliminess is a sign of excess moisture or spoilage. Proper airflow helps keep them fresh for longer!

Can you freeze fresh mushrooms?

Yes, but it's best to cook them first. Raw mushrooms can become soft and watery after thawing.

What's the best way to store mushrooms?

Keep them in the refrigerator in their original packaging or a paper bag. Avoid airtight containers and plastic bags.

How can I tell if mushrooms have gone bad?

Throw away your mushrooms if they become slimy, wrinkled, discoloured, mouldy, or develop a sour smell.

Can mushrooms be stored outside the fridge?

Only for a few hours. For longer freshness, always store them in the refrigerator.

Why do mushrooms become watery?

Excess moisture and poor airflow cause mushrooms to release water and become slimy.

Should mushrooms be kept in plastic?

No. Store them in their original breathable packaging or a paper bag instead.

How do restaurants keep mushrooms fresh?

They refrigerate them in breathable packaging and use them as fresh as possible.

Can you store different mushroom varieties together?

Yes, as long as they're stored in breathable packaging and are all fresh.