Simple storage change keeps mushrooms fresh for longer and banishes 'sliminess'
Mushrooms are a versatile vegetable that can be added to a range of dishes, but they can quickly turn slimy and lose their texture.
Autumn brought mushrooms into the spotlight as a culinary delight ideal for soups and stews, yet their shelf life often disappoints with rapid sliminess and decay in texture.
The team at Urban Farm-It has, however, divulged some clever storage tricks to extend your fungi's freshness.
They advise that the secret to avoiding premature spoilage lies in using paper-based solutions for storage.
They said: "Storing mushrooms correctly is crucial to maintaining their texture and freshness. Mushrooms are highly absorbent, so it's important to allow them to breathe and avoid moisture build-up.
"Using a breathable material like a brown paper bag helps to draw out excess moisture and keeps them from becoming slimy."
They've called on households to abandon plastic containers and instead use porous materials such as brown paper bags or kitchen towels, which both absorb unwanted moisture and let the mushrooms breathe, reports the Liverpool Echo.
They elaborated: "One of the most common mistakes we see is people storing mushrooms in sealed plastic containers.
"These trap moisture, which accelerates spoilage and can turn mushrooms slimy in just a few days. Always remove them from plastic packaging and store them in paper or a breathable alternative to prolong their freshness.
"Mushrooms are not only versatile but are also packed with essential nutrients, including B vitamins and antioxidants.
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"To make the most of them, you should handle them with care, keeping them unwashed and storing them properly to prevent spoilage.
"Whether you're using common varieties or more exotic types, proper storage is key to maximising their flavour and longevity."
They further suggested growing your own for ultimate freshness.
The specialist advised: "While proper storage is key to keeping shop-bought mushrooms fresh, the best way to guarantee freshness is to grow your own.
"By using one of our home mushroom growing kits, you can grow mushrooms exactly when you need them.
"This not only ensures you're always using the freshest mushrooms, but it also allows you to explore a variety of unique types.
"Plus, it's a sustainable and rewarding way to incorporate fresh, organic produce into your meals."
