Are you a fan of foraging for wild mushrooms?
If so, you may have come across the unique and delicious Shrimp-of-the-Woods mushroom.
With its spongy white flesh and texture similar to shrimp, this mushroom is a favorite among mushroom hunters.
But what do you do with all those mushrooms once you’ve collected them?
In this article, we’ll explore some tips and tricks for preserving Shrimp-of-the-Woods mushrooms so you can enjoy them all year round.
From pickling to freezing, we’ve got you covered.
So let’s dive in and learn how to make the most of this tasty wild mushroom!
How To Preserve Shrimp Of The Woods?
There are several ways to preserve Shrimp-of-the-Woods mushrooms, depending on your preferences and available resources.
One option is to pickle them, but be aware that the mushrooms need to be browned first in order to develop their flavor. This may seem strange, so a compromise would be to brown them and then marinate them in an acidic mixture, such as wine or lemon juice, with some olive oil thrown in for added flavor.
Another option is to wilt the mushrooms without browning and freeze them for later use. However, it’s important to note that freezing raw mushrooms can affect their texture, so it’s best to brown them after thawing.
If you prefer dried mushrooms, Shrimp-of-the-Woods can be sliced and dried. Just make sure to add some color to them after re-hydrating.
Finally, making a duxelles and freezing it is a great option that saves space in your freezer. A duxelles is a mixture of finely chopped mushrooms, onions, and herbs that can be used as a base for sauces, soups, and stews.
Introduction To Shrimp-of-the-Woods Mushrooms
Shrimp-of-the-Woods mushrooms, also known as Aborted Entoloma or Hunter’s Heart, are a fascinating edible species that are commonly found in the Eastern North American mountains. They have a unique appearance, resembling white popcorn balls that seem to crawl out of the earth. These mushrooms are easy to identify and are usually found during their season in the middle to late fall. They are frequently found near dead or decaying wood and often in the same vicinity as honey mushrooms (Armillaria).
Shrimp-of-the-Woods mushrooms are actually a combination of two species. The Entoloma fungi parasitize the honey mushroom to form an odd, lumpy, white mass that is prized as a culinary treat. The texture of these mushrooms is rather shrimp-like, which is where they get their name. They have a pleasant smell that is described as mild-strongly mealy and a mealy taste.
It’s important to exercise caution when identifying these mushrooms before eating them, as similar species such as Entoloma sinuatum can be poisonous. The aborted Entoloma was first named Clitopilus abortivus by Miles Joseph Berkeley and Moses Ashley Curtis, but it was given its current name by the Dutch mycologist Marinus Anton Donk in 1949.
Benefits Of Preserving Shrimp-of-the-Woods Mushrooms
Preserving Shrimp-of-the-Woods mushrooms not only allows you to enjoy their unique flavor and texture all year round, but it also has several benefits.
Firstly, preserving these mushrooms can help reduce food waste. Shrimp-of-the-Woods mushrooms are fragile and turn to ink quickly, making them difficult to store for long periods of time. By preserving them, you can prevent them from going to waste and make the most of your foraging efforts.
Secondly, Shrimp-of-the-Woods mushrooms are packed with nutrients that are beneficial to your health. They are a good source of vitamin D, which is essential for bone health and immune system function. They also contain tumor-fighting properties and are good for the immune system. By preserving them, you can ensure that you have access to these health benefits all year round.
Lastly, preserving Shrimp-of-the-Woods mushrooms can be a cost-effective way to enjoy this delicacy. These mushrooms are highly sought after by chefs and can be quite expensive to purchase fresh. By preserving them yourself, you can save money and have a delicious ingredient on hand whenever you need it.
Pickling Shrimp-of-the-Woods Mushrooms
Pickling Shrimp-of-the-Woods mushrooms is a great way to preserve them and enjoy their unique flavor all year round. Here’s how to do it:
Ingredients:
– 1 pound of Shrimp-of-the-Woods mushrooms
– 2 cups of white wine vinegar
– 1 cup of water
– 1/2 cup of sugar
– 1 tablespoon of salt
– 1 teaspoon of black peppercorns
– 2 bay leaves
– 2 cloves of garlic, crushed
Instructions:
1. Clean the mushrooms thoroughly by brushing off any dirt or debris. Cut off any extra dirty parts and soak them in cold water for a few minutes to remove any remaining dirt.
2. Slice the mushrooms into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
3. In a large pot, combine the white wine vinegar, water, sugar, salt, black peppercorns, bay leaves, and crushed garlic. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to low.
4. Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and simmer for about 10 minutes or until they are tender.
5. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the mushrooms to a sterilized jar or container. Make sure to pack them tightly.
6. Strain the pickling liquid through a fine-mesh sieve and pour it over the mushrooms until they are completely covered.
7. Let the jar cool to room temperature before sealing it tightly with a lid.
8. Store the pickled mushrooms in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.
Pickled Shrimp-of-the-Woods mushrooms make a great addition to salads, sandwiches, and antipasto platters. They also pair well with cheese and crackers or as a garnish for cocktails. Enjoy!
Freezing Shrimp-of-the-Woods Mushrooms
Freezing Shrimp-of-the-Woods mushrooms is a great way to preserve them for later use. However, not all types of mushrooms freeze the same way, so it’s important to follow the proper steps to ensure their quality is maintained.
Firstly, it’s best to freeze Shrimp-of-the-Woods mushrooms raw, as they tend to lose their texture when frozen after cooking. To prevent the mushrooms from sticking together in a big clump, freeze them in a single layer first before packaging them. This will make it easier to take out just what you need without having to thaw an entire block of frozen food.
When it comes to store-bought mushrooms like button mushrooms, creminis, and portobello, they can be frozen raw or cooked. Hen of the woods mushrooms, maitake mushrooms, and wild mushrooms in the slimy-capped Suillus genus are also best frozen raw due to their high moisture content.
To freeze Shrimp-of-the-Woods mushrooms, simply place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and label with the date. Frozen mushrooms will last up to a year in the freezer.
When using frozen Shrimp-of-the-Woods mushrooms in a recipe, add them directly to the dish without thawing first. Be careful not to add too many at once as this can bring down the temperature of the pan.
Drying Shrimp-of-the-Woods Mushrooms
Drying Shrimp-of-the-Woods mushrooms is another great way to preserve them. To do this, start by cleaning the mushrooms thoroughly and slicing them into thin pieces. It’s important to remove any dirt or debris that may be on the mushrooms, as this can affect their flavor and texture.
Next, place the sliced mushrooms on a dehydrator tray and set the temperature to 135°F. Allow the mushrooms to dry for 6-8 hours, or until they are completely dry and crisp.
Once the mushrooms are dry, you can store them in an airtight container or plastic bag. They will keep for several months in a cool, dry place.
When you’re ready to use the dried mushrooms, simply rehydrate them by soaking them in water for 30 minutes to an hour. You can then use them in soups, stews, sauces, or any other recipe that calls for mushrooms.
Dried Shrimp-of-the-Woods mushrooms have a concentrated flavor that is perfect for adding depth and richness to your dishes. They also have a long shelf life, making them a great option for those who want to enjoy these delicious mushrooms all year round.
Storing And Using Preserved Shrimp-of-the-Woods Mushrooms
Once you have preserved your Shrimp-of-the-Woods mushrooms, it’s important to store them properly to ensure their longevity and flavor.
If you have pickled the mushrooms, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a month. If you have wilted and frozen the mushrooms, store them in an airtight container or freezer bag in the freezer for up to six months.
For dried mushrooms, store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to six months. When ready to use, rehydrate the mushrooms by soaking them in warm water for 20-30 minutes before adding them to your recipe.
If you have made a duxelles and frozen it, store it in an airtight container or freezer bag in the freezer for up to six months. When ready to use, thaw the duxelles in the refrigerator overnight before adding it to your recipe.
When using preserved Shrimp-of-the-Woods mushrooms, keep in mind that their flavor may be stronger than fresh mushrooms. Use them sparingly and adjust seasoning as needed. They are great additions to sauces, soups, stews, and even as toppings for pizzas or salads.
