By Blake Jackson
Pennsylvania reigns supreme as the king of mushroom production in the US. Two-thirds of the white button mushrooms found nationwide hail from Keystone State farms!
For mushroom enthusiasts, this means easy access to fresh, local fungi throughout the year. But how to choose and store these delicacies?
Experts recommend selecting firm mushrooms with closed or slightly open caps. The surface should be white, creamy, or light brown. For optimal freshness, store them unwashed in a paper bag in the fridge for up to 3 days. Plastic bags trap moisture and promote spoilage.
Remember, only experts can tell mushrooms safe from poisonous ones. Never forage for your own!
Looking to extend your mushroom enjoyment? Fear not! Drying, freezing, and canning are all viable options.
Drying involves cleaning, slicing, and dehydrating the mushrooms for several hours. Freezing requires washing, trimming, and potentially blanching the mushrooms before storing them in airtight containers.
Canning requires a pressure canner and is only suitable for domestic, not wild, mushrooms. Consult a trusted resource like the National Center for Home Food Preservation for detailed canning instructions.
Of course, fresh mushrooms are delightful! Sauteing, roasting, or grilling unlocks their flavor potential. These versatile ingredients can be enjoyed solo as a side dish or incorporated into soups, stir-fries, salads, sauces, or even paired with meat.
So next time you're looking for a delicious and healthy addition to your meal, consider Pennsylvania's bounty of mushrooms!
Photo Credit:istock-guruxoox
Categories: Pennsylvania, Crops