Monday, July 16, 2007

Preserving your Fresh Mushrooms

Sautéing and Freezing your Mushrooms

How to Sauté Mushrooms
One the quickest and easiest ways to freeze fresh mushrooms. To start, slice or chop your fresh mushrooms, or if using presliced mushrooms - you are one step ahead. Heat 1 tbsp (per 8oz of mushrooms) in a fry pan over medium high heat. Add mushroom to hot pan and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until mushrooms are brown and tender. If you wish to have flavoured mushrooms you may also sauté with garlic, onions, and/or spices. Allow mushrooms to cool, then transfer to a small freezer container. Pushing the mushrooms to the bottom of the container and covering the top with a small piece of plastic wrap will help prevent freezer burn. Make sure to label the containers with the date.

Uses
When ready to use your frozen mushrooms simply pop them out of the container and drop the frozen block into the frying pan. Add ½ tbsp of oil and sauté until mushrooms are warm. There is no need to pre-thaw the mushrooms.

Pros
- The is the best method to use when you want to maintain the taste and texture of a fresh sauté.

Cons
- If the mushrooms are not packed tight into the container, air will start to cause freezer burn.
- Freezer burn will slightly alter the taste and texture of the mushrooms.

No comments: