Drying parasol mushrooms - how to preserve the mushrooms

Drying parasol mushrooms - this is how it works

How to properly dry parasol mushrooms

First of all, we would like to note that parasol mushrooms are not really suitable for freezing. If you want to preserve them, drying is the only sensible option.

Dry parasol mushrooms in the dehydrator

Clean the parasol mushrooms. Black and slimy areas need to be removed.
Cut off the stems and set them aside for now.
Cut the hats into slices or pie-shaped pieces.
Put the mushroom slices or pieces in the dehydrator.
Switch on the machine and follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Now cut the stems into small wheels.
Take the mushroom pieces out of the dehydrator, then place the stem wheels inside.
Grind the dried handle wheels in a mortar or coffee grinder to create a flavorful powder.

Dry parasol mushrooms in the oven and in the air

Clean the parasol mushrooms. Black and slimy areas need to be removed.
Then cut the mushrooms into three to five millimeters thick slices.
Distribute the pieces evenly on a baking sheet lined with baking paper.
Dry the parasol mushrooms for about 20 minutes in an oven at 40 to 50 degrees Celsius. The door should be ajar to allow the moisture to escape. Simply clamp a wooden spoon in between.
Take the mushrooms out of the oven and place them on newspaper.
Let the parasol mushrooms dry for another three to four days in the midday sun.

Tips:

If you were only to dry the mushrooms in the oven, black and hard specimens would probably come out.
Use the parasol mushrooms regularly and replace the newspaper if necessary.
Make sure that the mushrooms do not touch while drying.

Air dry parasol mushrooms

Prepare the parasol mushrooms as described above (wash and cut).
Spread the small mushroom pieces out on a grid lined with either baking parchment or newspaper.
Put the grid in a dry, airy room.

Tips

As soon as the mushrooms rustle audibly, they are completely dry.

Store dried parasol mushrooms correctly

It is best to store dried parasol mushrooms (including the powder) in airtight, dark glasses.

Tips

The powder is ideal for seasoning soups, salads and sauces.
If you want to process the dried parasol mushrooms further, soak them in lukewarm water for around 30 minutes. After that, you can use the pieces like fresh parasol mushrooms.