If You Dehydrate Mushrooms

[Granny Smith]

I've dehydrated mushrooms for years. Last year I did an experiment. I cut the stems off the mushrooms even with the bottom of the cap, then sliced the caps and dried as usual.

I pulsed the stems in the food processor until they were small bits, then dehydrated those on leather trays. I ended up with tiny bits of dried mushroom (of course, what else would I end up with?) These have come in so handy for making cream of mushroom soup, flavoring gravies, and adding to casseroles - no need to rehydrate, just toss them in. I've found more uses for the stems than the sliced mushrooms.

BTW, the stems from 4 quarts of mushrooms only filled a spice jar about halfway, but they've lasted all winter! I'm thinking about doing all of my mushrooms this way.

[meemo]

I'm goin to try that with some that I dried. I havent been happy with them when I try to rehydrate the slices. Maybe if they were little bitty pieces it would be better. We'll see.

[nappy]

Sounds like a good idea, Gayle. I've also had mixed results with using dehydrated sliced mushrooms. They never cook any softer than the rubbery stage, and that is in soups cooked all day. I asked on another forum how to rehydrate them so they are a better texture. Well, it is best to plan ahead...they suggested soaking them in cold water overnight. I'm still not sure they are soft enough for my taste.

And thanks for the email to give me/us all a reminder to post. Seems to be effective.

[meemo]

Nappy, that was my problem. It didnt matter if I soaked them overnight or even if they went in the pressure cooker with meat I was trying to tenderize. I'm goin to try putting some thru the food processor tomorrow.

[Granny Smith]

Nappy, it's good to see you posting!

Peggy, pulsing the already dried mushrooms is a good idea! I'm not too happy with the way mine rehydrate, either, so this would be a good solution. I don't know why the slices stay so rubbery. I was hoping they'd be more meaty. I like the tiny bits, though. They're not chewy. Also, if you chop them finely before you dehydrate them, then spread them out evenly on the leather tray, they dry in about an hour so they save on electricity, too. I put some in spaghetti sauce tonight and it was very good.

[meemo]

I'm fixin to get the two qt jars I have down and grind them up. Everyway I've tried to rehydrate them hasnt been good. Thats why I havent dried anymore. If this turns out good I'll get more to dry at Sams this weekend.

[debi]

I think I will do the same thing.

[meemo]

This was an excellent idea. I ground up 2 qt jars and both of them fit in one jar. I'm goin to put some in stew that Im making.

[Granny Smith]

Peggy, let us know how you like the results in the stew.