Keeping dried mushrooms safe: Tips to preserve aroma and repel pests
Drying is the most popular way to store mushrooms. In this form, they possess an extraordinary aroma. We can't imagine many dishes, particularly festive ones, without them. But what can be done to ensure that mushrooms maintain their delightful scent and, most importantly, aren't targeted by moths?
14 October 2024 10:28
Dried mushrooms are a wonderful addition to pierogi, cabbage, and aromatic sauces and are also used to make mushroom soup for Christmas. Their shop costs can be exorbitant before the festive season, so we try to stock up early. However, it's crucial not to waste the effort expended in gathering and drying mushrooms. Proper storage is essential.
Dry thoroughly before placing in a jar
Before transferring mushrooms to a container, ensure they are completely dry, as even a small amount of moisture can lead to mould growth and attract pests. Dried mushrooms are best stored in a glass jar that is airtight, moisture-resistant, and protects against external odours. The container itself should be kept in a shaded place at room temperature. Prolonged exposure to sunlight causes mushrooms to fade and lose their aroma. Besides, they spoil more quickly. Nonetheless, the biggest enemy of dried mushrooms is moisture.
Dried mushrooms have hygroscopic properties, meaning they absorb moisture from the environment, accelerating the development of rotting and mould. Therefore, even a tightly closed container may not suffice to prevent this. It is worth adding a handful of dry rice and dried mushrooms to the jar. The grains excellently absorb excess moisture.
How to protect dried mushrooms from moths?
Another trick to help extend the shelf life of dried mushrooms is to add spices. The first is bay leaves, which have insecticidal properties. Their scent is repellent to many insects, primarily moths, which can cause issues in the kitchen. Since bay leaves are highly aromatic and mushrooms quickly absorb odours, they can easily take on the distinctive notes of the spice. It is advisable to place the leaves in the jar with dried mushrooms for about a week. After this time, they can be removed, placed in a separate bowl, and set next to the jars with mushrooms.
In addition to bay leaves, adding a few grains of allspice or cloves to the jar with dried mushrooms, which also have insect-repelling properties is worthwhile. It is beneficial to place dried lemon or orange peels in the cupboards where we store jars with dried mushrooms. Moths can quickly contaminate entire supplies. Mushrooms contaminated with insect excrement and secretions are only fit for disposal. Spices such as bay leaves and allspice help prevent this.
