Today we want to share with you a revolutionary method of drying mushrooms that will preserve their taste for longer. Forget about traditional drying in the sun or in a dryer - we suggest drying mushrooms in the refrigerator!
Why is it worth drying mushrooms?
Drying mushrooms is one of the best preservation methods because it allows you to preserve their taste and properties for a very long time. Just pour water over them to restore their former shine. Dried mushrooms are perfect for preparing soups, sauces, stuffings and one-pot dishes. They have an intense aroma and add a unique flavor to dishes.
Method of drying mushrooms in the refrigerator
It would seem that the process of drying mushrooms requires warm air. But it turns out that you can dry mushrooms in the refrigerator! How to do it? Just use a moisture absorber that will collect the water vapor escaping from the mushrooms and speed up the drying process.
Step 1: Preparing the mushrooms
Before you start drying, you need to properly prepare the mushrooms. Clean them well, removing all dirt and soil residues. They can then be cut into smaller pieces to speed up the drying process. Remember that if you are drying larger mushrooms, it is worth blanching them first, i.e. boiling them briefly in salted water.
Step 2: Preparing the refrigerator
Line the shelves of the refrigerator with parchment paper to prevent the mushrooms from sticking to them. It is also important to maintain appropriate spaces between the mushrooms to ensure adequate air flow. Mushrooms should also not touch the walls of the refrigerator.
Step 3: Using a moisture absorber
Put the moisture absorber in the refrigerator, preferably on the bottom shelf. You can buy it in a store or use home remedies, e.g. charcoal or rice in a mesh bag. The moisture absorber will collect the moisture released from the mushrooms and speed up their drying.
Step 4: Drying process
Place the mushrooms on a refrigerator shelf prepared with parchment paper, leaving appropriate spaces between them. Close the fridge and leave the mushrooms for about a week. During this time, the moisture absorber will collect the water vapor coming from the mushrooms, and they will gradually dry out.
Step 5: Check the effects
After a week, check whether the mushrooms are properly dried. They should be hard and crispy, without moisture. If they are still soft, leave them in the fridge for a few days longer. Remember that drying time may vary depending on the type and size of mushrooms.
Step 6: Storing dried mushrooms
Dried mushrooms should not be stored in plastic bags because they retain moisture and may cause mold. It is best to store them in glass jars or metal containers, tightly closed. This way they will retain their freshness and aroma for a long time.
Other methods of drying mushrooms
In addition to drying in the refrigerator, there are many other methods of drying mushrooms. One of them is sun drying. Just spread the mushrooms on parchment paper and expose them to direct sunlight. However, drying in the sun requires appropriate weather conditions and takes longer than drying in the refrigerator.
Another method is to dry the mushrooms in a dryer. If we have such a device, just set the appropriate temperature and drying time. A mushroom dryer will ensure even drying of the mushrooms and shorten the drying time.
Another alternative is to dry the mushrooms in the microwave. This method is quick, but you need to be careful not to overdry the mushrooms. Place the mushrooms in the microwave at medium power and remove them several times to remove excess water vapor.
The choice of mushroom drying method depends on our preferences and available tools. It is worth experimenting and discovering new ways that will allow us to enjoy the taste of mushrooms all year round.