Video tip: Storing and cleaning mushrooms

When you’re shopping for mushrooms at the store, look for ones that are firm to the touch, with tightly closed caps. Fresh mushrooms should be evenly colored, without any damage, and they shouldn’t have soft spots or feel spongy. Try not to buy mushrooms more than a day or two before using.

To store them, the first thing you should do is take them out of that clamshell or bag and spread them out on a shallow tray. Cover them with a damp paper towel and place them in the refrigerator.

So, what’s the best way to clean a mushroom?

KITCHEN TIPS: 36 simple tips to simplify life in the kitchen

Feel free to give them a good dusting with a sponge, or use a small kitchen brush to remove dirt. If the mushrooms are extra dirty, give them a quick wash. Although mushrooms are porous, they won’t absorb as much moisture as was originally believed. Sometimes a little water is the best way to get dirt out of every nook and cranny. Give the mushrooms a quick dunk (or two) in a bowl of water or rinse them under cool, running water, then promptly pat dry or run through a salad spinner.

Wait to wash the mushrooms until right before you use them so they stay fresh.

If you have any gadgets, kitchen tips or questions you’d like me to explore, leave a comment below or shoot me an email at noelle.carter@latimes.com.

ALSO:

Go behind the scenes at the Test Kitchen

36 handy kitchen tips from the L.A. Times Test Kitchen

Browse hundreds of recipes from the L.A. Times Test Kitchen