Cleaning and Rehydration Methods

Never soak fresh mushrooms in water- they are very absorbant and will become soggy. Instead, simply use a mushroom brush or wipe with a damp paper towel. If mushrooms are very dirty, you can rinse them under cold running water and blot with a towel.

To reconstitute dried mushrooms, soak from .5 to 4 hours in tepid water to cover. Drain and use as for fresh mushrooms. Use the water, if not gritty, for sauces or soups.
Store dried mushrooms uncovered in a glass container in a light but not sunny place. Three ounces dried mushrooms reconstituted equal 1 pound fresh. To keep fresh mushrooms or truffles impaled on food as a garnish, use tiny branches of fresh lemon thyme as picks.

To store mushrooms temporarily, keep them refrigerated in a ventilated container. To keep mushrooms light in color, sprinkle with lemon juice or white wine.