Texture matters. A lot. Washed mushrooms tend to turn mushy and limp when cooked. If you’ve ever ended up with floppy, rubbery mushrooms instead of the crisp, caramelized ones you see on cooking shows, washing is probably to blame.
It’s not just cooking that’s affected—storing wet mushrooms is a recipe for disaster. That added moisture makes them spoil faster, turning slimy and gross within days. Unless you like your fungi with a side of slime (we hope not), skip the rinse.
So, How Do You Clean Mushrooms?
If washing is out of the question, how do you get rid of the dirt?
The answer: a soft brush or a damp paper towel.
Simply brush off the dirt with a soft-bristled brush or gently wipe the mushroom with a slightly damp paper towel. It takes a little more effort, but your mushrooms will thank you with perfect flavor and texture.
If you encounter especially stubborn dirt (think “I’ve lived in the ground for years” vibes), you can lightly dampen the paper towel—but be gentle. We’re aiming for a spa day, not a full-blown bath.
Final Thoughts
Mushrooms are delicate, delicious, and deserve proper handling. Keep them dry, skip the rinse, and you’ll be rewarded with richly flavored, beautifully textured mushrooms every time.
