Mushrooms in jars for winter

Mushrooms in jars for winter – A delicacy full of flavor and memories

Mushrooms are delicious fungi with a distinct aroma that can turn any meal into a feast. Preserving them for winter is a tradition passed down through generations, bringing not only a tasty dish but also a part of the nostalgia and joy of the cold season. This mushroom jar recipe is simple but requires a bit of patience and attention to ensure that the result meets your expectations. Here’s how to achieve the best preserved mushrooms, step by step.

Preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: Depends on the size of the jars, but generally 6-8 large jars

Necessary ingredients:
- 5 kg fresh mushrooms
- Coarse salt (about 200 g, but you can adjust to taste)
- Jars (of various sizes, depending on preference)

Key points about the ingredients:
- Mushrooms: Choose fresh, firm mushrooms without spots or signs of damage. A good selection of mushrooms will influence the final quality of the dish.
- Salt: Use coarse salt, as it helps preserve the mushrooms and intensifies the flavors. Avoid fine salt, which dissolves too quickly and may make the mushrooms too salty.

Step 1: Cleaning the mushrooms
Start by cleaning the mushrooms of debris and impurities. Use a sharp knife to remove any unsuitable parts. After cleaning, wash them well under a stream of cold water, ensuring you remove all residues.

Step 2: Salting the mushrooms
Place the mushrooms in a large pot with cold water, adding 2-3 tablespoons of coarse salt. Let them sit for about 30 minutes. This process will help eliminate impurities and further clean the mushrooms.

Step 3: Boiling the mushrooms
After soaking, drain the mushrooms and rinse them again under a stream of water. Then, place them in a clean pot, adding enough water to cover them. Boil the mushrooms for 30 minutes over medium heat. This step not only helps with preservation but also enhances the flavors.

Step 4: Cooling the mushrooms
After boiling, let the mushrooms cool in the water, but don’t forget to drain the water from the pot. Once cooled, you can give them a quick rinse under cold water, but don’t wash them too thoroughly again.

Step 5: Filling the jars with mushrooms
It’s time to fill the jars! Place the mushrooms in jars, alternating layers of mushrooms with layers of salt. This method will ensure optimal preservation and allow the flavors to develop. If you prefer, you can skip the salt and choose to freeze the mushrooms in bags.

Step 6: Preservation
After filling the jars, seal them well and store them in a cool, dark place. Preserved mushrooms can be consumed throughout the entire winter.

Tips and tricks:
- For extra flavor, you can add a few peppercorns or bay leaves to the jars.
- Ensure that the jars are perfectly clean and dry before filling. This will prevent contamination and ensure better preservation.
- If you don’t have jars available, mushrooms can be frozen, but the texture will be different after thawing.

Nutritional benefits:
Mushrooms are rich in protein, fiber, and B vitamins. They are low in calories, making them an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. A serving of preserved mushrooms (approximately 100 g) contains between 30 and 50 calories, depending on the amount of salt used.

Serving and combinations:
Preserved mushrooms can be used in various dishes, from stews and soups to salads and side dishes. I recommend serving them alongside warm polenta or combined with pork or chicken for a rich and savory taste.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen mushrooms instead of preserved ones?
Yes, frozen mushrooms are a good alternative, but the texture will be different after thawing.
2. How long can I keep jars of mushrooms?
Under ideal conditions, preserved mushrooms can be kept for up to a year.
3. What other spices can I use to diversify the flavor of the mushrooms?
Besides salt, you can experiment with herbs like thyme or oregano.

Now that you know how to prepare mushrooms in jars, don’t let winter catch you without this delicacy! Enjoy the taste of nature even on the coldest days, and cherish the memories created around the table. Bon appétit!