“Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue through these links.”Mushrooms spark a lively debate in the food world. While some recoil at the mere thought of them, others embrace all varieties of mushrooms with enthusiasm. Count Ree Drummond among the mushroom enthusiasts, as she once declared them to be one of her absolute favorite foods. (But don’t bring up bananas around her!) If you share the Pioneer Woman’s love for mushrooms, chances are you have a stash waiting as you peruse mushroom recipes to make the most of these versatile fungi. However, this leads to a contentious issue: Should you wash mushrooms before using them? You might think it’s a simple lesson from Mushroom 101, but the topic continues to stir up discussion.The crux of the debate lies in the fact that moisture can render mushrooms slimy (yuck!) and hinder browning if they’re wet. On the other hand, mushrooms often come home with a layer of dirt (also yuck). So, what’s a home cook to do? Keep reading to discover the best way to clean mushrooms.Should You Wash Mushrooms?In short: It’s recommended to clean your mushrooms, but the decision to wash them is ultimately up to you. According to the Mushroom Council, “Mushrooms can be cleaned with a damp paper towel to eliminate dirt and debris.” Alternatively, a gentler option is to use a mushroom brush. Both methods are approved by the USDA.Yet, the council also suggests that it’s permissible to quickly rinse mushrooms with cool water—just ensure they’re thoroughly dried before cooking. If your mushrooms are exceptionally dirty, a brief rinse may be beneficial. While store-bought cultivated mushrooms typically require less effort, foraged varieties may need an extra rinse.It’s worth noting that some mushrooms absorb moisture more readily than others. Varieties with exposed gills, such as portobellos and shiitakes, are more prone to absorbing moisture, making brushing a preferable cleaning method. On the other hand, mushrooms without exposed gills, like button mushrooms, can be rinsed more easily.The Best Method to Wash MushroomsIf you prefer washing your mushrooms or have particularly dirty ones, follow these guidelines to prevent them from becoming mushy and slimy:Avoid soaking mushrooms. Instead, rinse them quickly under cool water in a colander. Dry them promptly using paper towels or a clean kitchen towel, or use a salad spinner to remove excess water.Wash whole mushrooms. To prevent excessive moisture absorption, clean and dry mushrooms before slicing them.Use washed mushrooms promptly. Clean them just before using them, whether in cooking or freezing.
