How to master the art of cooking with frozen mushrooms

Frozen mushrooms are a versatile ingredient in the kitchen; you can make soup, sauce, risotto, or a filling for dumplings with them. However, improper cooking can cause them to lose their texture and aroma. So how can you prepare mushrooms to ensure they are both tasty and reminiscent of freshly picked ones? The key to success lies in a few simple rules.

Cooking frozen mushrooms requires a bit of attention, but the results are rewarding. Remember not to defrost them before cooking, use minimal amounts of water, and only cook as much as you need. By following these simple rules, your mushroom dishes will be aromatic, tasty, and full of forest character.

      
1. Do not defrost before cooking: Many make the mistake of thawing mushrooms before putting them into the pot. In fact, frozen mushrooms should be placed directly onto the pan or into the pot. Thawing can make them watery and cause them to lose some of their flavour.
2. Cook with minimal water: If you're cooking frozen mushrooms in water, use as little as possible to avoid diluting their flavour. It is best to cook them in vegetable or meat stock, which further enriches their aroma.
3. Add spices at the end: Frozen mushrooms have a delicate taste, which can easily be overwhelmed by spices. Therefore, salt, pepper, and herbs should be added at the end of cooking to preserve the natural aroma.
4. Avoid overcooking: Frozen mushrooms are already thermally processed before freezing, so they do not require long cooking. 10-15 minutes is sufficient for them to become soft without losing firmness.

Freezing mushrooms is an excellent way to preserve their freshness, taste, and nutritional value for longer. For the best results, it is worth following a few basic rules.

1. Selecting mushrooms: Fresh, healthy, and firm mushrooms are best for freezing. Avoid those with signs of mould, discolouration, or excessive moisture. Popular types for freezing include porcini mushrooms, bay boletes, chanterelles, and slippery jacks.
2. Cleaning: Before freezing, thoroughly clean mushrooms to remove sand, leaves, and needles. You can do this gently with a brush or a damp cloth. If the mushrooms are very dirty, rinse them quickly under running water, but ensure they are thoroughly dried before proceeding.
3. Preparation for freezing: Depending on future use, you can freeze mushrooms whole, cut into pieces, or after initial thermal processing.
4. Packing and storing: Store mushrooms in airtight bags or containers designed for freezing. This way, they won't absorb the smells of other products in the freezer. It is advisable to write down the freezing date and the type of mushrooms on the packaging.
5. Storage time: Mushrooms are best consumed within 8-12 months from freezing. Longer storage can affect their taste and texture.