FRESH STORAGE
- You can store fresh shiitakes for up to 7-14 days in a paper bag in the refrigerator. Gently fold the top over but do not seal the bag. Change the bag at least once during that time. Shiitake mushrooms should be kept dry and be spongy to the touch.
- It’s not uncommon to start seeing the underside gills start to tan and the edges of the mushroom cap start to curl as they age and dry.
- A white mold-like spreading in the paper bag is not uncommon and is simply the mushroom trying to regrow by spreading spores. Often means the mushrooms are very fresh and still experiencing a moist or warmer environment.
- A dark rusty color on the gills means excess moisture and the mushrooms should be cooked or dried soon. In that case sun-dry them outdoors with the gill side up, place in a food dehydrator, or freeze-drier. (See “dried storage” and “Quick Facts about Shiitake Mushrooms” below for more information)
DRIED STORAGE
- Place dried shiitakes into a bag or container that breathes and keep in a cool dry place, and they can be stored for up to 6 months.
- For even more freshness place your dried shiitake mushrooms into an airtight container and into the freezer for storage up to 12 months.
- Freeze-Dried shiitakes (such as dried in a Harvest Right freeze drier) can allow for long-term storage up to 20 years (when properly dried, sealed in Mylar bags with oxygen removal packets).
- (Grate them on salads or add flavor to stocks and soups. Many people freeze dry them and process them into a fine powder which makes for great powdered spices. Add a teaspoon of garlic powder or garlic salt (or your favorite spice) per half cup mushroom powder).