Why should mushrooms be wiped or brushed rather than soaked before use?

Question

Explore why mushrooms should be wiped instead of washed before cooking.

Answer 1

Mushrooms should be wiped or brushed clean instead of soaked because they are porous and absorb water easily, leading to a soggy texture and diluted flavor when cooked.

Detailed Explanation:

Mushrooms have a sponge-like structure that readily absorbs liquids. When you soak them in water, they become waterlogged. This excess water prevents them from browning properly when sautéed or roasted, resulting in a steamed, rather than seared, texture. Furthermore, the absorbed water dilutes the mushroom's natural earthy flavor, making them less flavorful in your dish. Wiping or brushing removes dirt and debris without saturating the mushroom, preserving its texture and taste. A damp cloth or soft brush is all you need to gently clean the surface. For particularly dirty mushrooms, a quick rinse under running water followed by immediate drying is acceptable, but prolonged soaking should always be avoided.

Pro Tip:

If you must rinse your mushrooms, dry them thoroughly with paper towels before cooking. You can also pre-cook them in a dry pan over medium heat to evaporate any excess moisture before adding oil or other ingredients.