Dried Mushrooms for Winter

To obtain a delicious snack or an ideal ingredient for various dishes, dried mushrooms are an excellent choice. We start by carefully cleaning the mushrooms, removing impurities with the help of a fine brush. It is important not to wash them with water, as mushrooms quickly absorb moisture, which could affect their drying process. After cleaning them, we separate the caps from the stems. This step is essential, as each part will dry differently, and uniform slicing will ensure even drying.

Once the mushrooms are prepared, we slice them into rounds or pieces, depending on personal preferences and how we intend to use them later. The slices should be about 5 mm thick so that they dry efficiently without remaining moist inside. We place the slices on the drying racks of the food dehydrator, making sure they do not overlap, to allow air circulation between them.

After placing all the slices, we put the lid on the device, plug it in, and turn it on. It is important to monitor the drying degree of the slices from time to time to ensure that the process is proceeding as expected. We rotate the drying trays so that the slices on the bottom move to the top, ensuring even drying.

After a few hours, we take out a few slices of mushrooms to check their condition. If the slices are brittle and crumble easily, it means that the drying process is complete. It is essential to let the slices cool completely before packaging them. Once cooled, we can carefully store them in cloth bags or jars with lids. Don’t forget to label the containers, noting the date and type of mushrooms to know exactly what you have stored.

It is recommended to check the stored mushrooms from time to time to ensure they do not show signs of moisture or damage. Dried mushrooms can be used in various dishes, adding an intense flavor and specific aroma, whether you integrate them into soups, sauces, or pies. They can also be rehydrated in warm water before use, bringing them back to life and making them just as delicious as when they were fresh.