The Reason Why You Should Never Wash Mushrooms Before Cooking or Storing Them

Mushrooms are a beloved ingredient, especially during the cozy, comforting months of fall and winter. Their hearty flavor can be the star of any dish, from creamy soups to earthy risottos. With their varied shapes and tastes, mushrooms are like nature’s little surprises, sprouting mysteriously from the ground, bringing a bit of that forest magic into your kitchen. But here’s the rub: mushrooms can be a real pain to clean. Dirt clings to them like a needy ex, and the temptation to wash them under a running tap is strong. However, washing your mushrooms might actually ruin the very thing that makes them so delightful.

The Mushroom’s Sponge-Like Nature

Mushrooms are not just funky fungi; they’re nature’s little sponges. Their texture is porous, and just like a sponge, they absorb water—lots of it. When you wash mushrooms, especially under running water, they soak up that moisture. This becomes a problem when it’s time to cook them. Instead of that beautiful sear, you end up with sad, soggy mushrooms that steam rather than brown. And we all know, no one wants steamed mushrooms unless you're making some kind of mushroom sauna (which, by the way, sounds like a terrible idea).

The extra water also dilutes their flavor, so instead of that rich, earthy taste, you’re left with something a bit… well, watered down. Mushrooms are already about 80-90% water, so giving them a bath just throws the balance off even more.

Washing Equals Mushy Mushrooms

Let’s talk about texture—because texture is everything when it comes to mushrooms. When you wash them, that extra moisture not only makes them soggy but can also turn their texture mushy when cooked. If you’ve ever wondered why your sautéed mushrooms end up looking like a deflated balloon instead of those crispy, golden beauties you see on cooking shows, chances are you washed them beforehand.

Plus, washing mushrooms before storing them in the fridge is just as bad. That moisture leads to a quicker spoilage rate, causing your mushrooms to get slimy and gross much faster than they would have if left dry. So unless you like your fungi with a side of slime, it’s best to keep them away from water.

So, How Do You Clean Mushrooms?

If washing is out of the question, how do you get rid of that stubborn dirt? Enter the mushroom brush or a damp paper towel. A quick wipe down is all your mushrooms really need. Simply brush off the dirt gently with a soft-bristled brush, or give them a gentle dab with a damp towel. Sure, it’s a little more effort, but your mushrooms will thank you by retaining their full flavor and perfect texture.

If the dirt is really stubborn (we’re talking “I’ve been living in the dirt for years” kind of mushrooms), you can slightly dampen the towel, but avoid getting carried away. A little moisture is fine, but we’re aiming for a spa day, not a full-on bath.