How to freeze your mushrooms? Freezing mushrooms can be catastrophic when done incorrectly!
Should they be cooked or at least blanched before freezing them? Can we freeze them directly raw?
We will explain everything to you about this method of conservation! Follow us !
Effects Of Freezing Mushrooms
Why Freeze Mushrooms?
Most fresh mushrooms can keep for a few days in the refrigerator before they start to show signs of decay, such as becoming soft, brown, or even slimy.
How Long Can I Keep My Mushrooms In The Freezer?
Frozen mushrooms will keep in your freezer for 9-12 months.
Are There Any Methods To Properly Freeze Mushrooms?
Yes! Certain methods of preparation before freezing can help mushrooms retain their freshness, texture and nutrients! We explain everything to you below!
How To Freeze Mushrooms?
The fresher the mushrooms are when you freeze them, the better they will keep in the freezer. Fresh mushrooms have a firm texture and a pleasant earthy smell.
Before freezing the mushrooms, brush off any visible dirt. Many people are tempted to wash mushrooms before freezing them, but this tends to soften them when cooked.
If you choose to freeze raw mushrooms, place them in a freezer-safe plastic bag and vacuum seal them. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing the bag and placing it in the freezer.
Is It Safe To Freeze Raw Mushrooms?
We do not recommend freezing your raw mushrooms.
Rather than freezing raw mushrooms, here are two recommended ways to prepare them before freezing.
Blanch Mushrooms Before Freezing
Blanching is a rapid cooking process that helps preserve your mushrooms. It works by destroying enzymes that can increase how quickly food goes bad.
An added benefit of blanching is that it inactivates Listeria and Salmonella, two common foodborne bacteria, thereby improving the safety of mushrooms before freezing them.
Blanching times vary depending on the size of the mushrooms, so it’s a good idea to sort them by size or cut them into similar-sized pieces before blanching them.
Sauté Mushrooms Before Freezing
In a large skillet, add fresh mushrooms and a small amount of oil or butter and bring to medium-high heat. Cook them for about 5 minutes, until they are almost cooked through.
Remove your mushrooms from the pan and place them on a paper towel or plate to cool. Once completely cooled, place your cooked mushrooms in an airtight freezer bag and place it in the freezer.
How To Cook Frozen Mushrooms?
You can add them frozen to your preparation. However, frozen mushrooms are best suited for dishes that will be cooked, such as soups or stews, or as a pizza topping.
If you’re not making a dish that cooks long enough to properly heat and cook the frozen mushrooms, you can thaw them first by transferring them to the refrigerator overnight to defrost them.
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Find out where the best spots are for Morel mushrooms, Chanterelles and many other mushrooms, on our mushroom maps!
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