Mushrooms are a versatile and delicious addition to many dishes, but they can also be perishable. So, how long can you keep mushrooms in the fridge?
Refrigerator Storage Times for Mushrooms
The shelf life of mushrooms in the refrigerator depends on the type of mushroom and how they are stored. In general, most mushrooms will last for 3-7 days in the fridge. However, there are some exceptions:
| Mushroom Type | Refrigerator Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| Button mushrooms | 3-5 days |
| Cremini mushrooms | 5-7 days |
| Portobello mushrooms | 5-7 days |
| Oyster mushrooms | 5-7 days |
| Shiitake mushrooms | 7-10 days |
| Maitake mushrooms | 7-10 days |
| Chanterelle mushrooms | 7-10 days |
| Morels | 7-10 days |
| Truffles | 10-14 days |
How to Store Mushrooms in the Fridge
To extend the shelf life of your mushrooms, follow these storage tips:
- Choose fresh mushrooms. Avoid mushrooms that are bruised, slimy, or have dark spots.
- Store mushrooms in a paper bag. Do not store mushrooms in plastic bags, as this can trap moisture and cause them to spoil faster.
- Keep mushrooms in the refrigerator at 40°F or below. The colder the temperature, the longer the mushrooms will last.
- Check mushrooms regularly. Discard any mushrooms that are slimy, moldy, or have an off odor.
Signs of Spoiled Mushrooms
It is important to be able to identify the signs of spoiled mushrooms. Here are some things to look for:
- Slimy texture
- Mold
- Dark spots
- Off odor
If you see any of these signs, it is best to discard the mushrooms.
How to Use Mushrooms Before They Go Bad
If you have mushrooms that are starting to spoil, there are a few ways to use them before they go bad:
- Sauté them. Sautéing mushrooms is a quick and easy way to cook them.
- Add them to soup or stew. Mushrooms add a lot of flavor to soups and stews.
- Make a mushroom omelet. A mushroom omelet is a delicious and nutritious breakfast.
- Pickle them. Pickled mushrooms are a great way to preserve them.
Conclusion
Mushrooms are a versatile and delicious addition to many dishes, but they can also be perishable. By following the tips in this article, you can extend the shelf life of your mushrooms and enjoy them for longer.
