{"id":25467,"date":"2025-08-10T16:40:12","date_gmt":"2025-08-10T23:40:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/extension.wsu.edu\/skagit\/?p=25467"},"modified":"2025-12-18T15:31:09","modified_gmt":"2025-12-18T23:31:09","slug":"skagit-food-preservation-mushrooms","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/extension.wsu.edu\/skagit\/2025\/08\/10\/skagit-food-preservation-mushrooms\/","title":{"rendered":"Skagit Food Preservation: Mushrooms"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

For a printable version of this webpage: Mushrooms<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n

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Mushrooms
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Though found in the vegetable section and farmers\u2019 produce markets, mushrooms are not technically a vegetable but rather a fungus. There are many different varieties \u2013 white, button, cremini, portabella, shitake–each with a distinctive flavor and texture profile. Most mushrooms available at supermarkets are commercially grown. In Skagit county, wild mushrooms can be foraged in the Cascades, but since mushrooms can be poisonous, it\u2019s safest to purchase them from a reliable source.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\r\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n


Nutrition<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Mushrooms are low in calories and a good source of B vitamins and potassium. One cup of raw sliced mushrooms contains only 20 calories. Mushrooms have no fat, cholesterol, or sodium.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Selection<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Look for young mushrooms that are small to medium in size. Caps should be either closed around the stem or moderately open with pink or light tan gills. The surface of the cap should be white, creamy, or light brown. Overripe mushrooms with dark discolored gills and caps may have slightly more flavor but they will spoil rather quickly. To clean before processing, use a soft brush or wipe with a wet paper towel to remove dirt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Storage<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The best container for fresh mushrooms stored inside or outside a refrigerator is in a paper bag. This allows moisture to escape and fresh air to circulate. Plastic bags are not recommended and will shorten storage capacity. Mushrooms can be brushed or wiped before using. If they must be washed, it is best to avoid soaking and to dry thoroughly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Measurements<\/h2>\n\n\n
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Freezing <\/h2>\n\n\n\n