When it comes to mushrooms, to peel or not to peel? It's a question that's sparked heated debate in kitchens everywhere, and the internet is awash with opinions. From seasoned chefs to home cooks, everyone seems to take a strong stance on the issue.
“I've been having an argument with my daughter,” confessed one member of Australia's $10 Meals Facebook group. “I peel mushrooms and she doesn't.” Intrigued by this kitchen spat, she turned to the group for advice.
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The responses flooded in, revealing a wide variety of ways to cook mushrooms.
To Peel or Not to Peel
“I've never peeled a mushroom in my life,” one member proudly declared.
Another person added some traditional wisdom: “I thought they peeled it because it grows in poop. And you cut off an inch off the bottom. That's what I was taught.”
The word “poop” elicited a reaction of horror.
“They grow up on poo?” one member exclaimed in disbelief.
Another member explained that “commercially available mushrooms are grown using a mixture of straw and manure.”
Various mushroom cooking methods
Some people insisted on peeling, citing hygiene concerns.
“We peel mushrooms because you can't wash them like you can with root vegetables,” one member explained. “Plus, it's a pain to wash them right before frying, and you can't dry them properly.”
However, some people argued that peeling the mushrooms was unnecessary and wasteful.
“Don't peel it,” one member urged. “If it's dirty, wipe it off with a damp paper towel. Peeling it removes nutrients and flavor.”
The debate raged, with some feeling torn apart by the conflicting information. “I was also told not to wash it because it's porous and 'pooticles' (poop particles) will seep in,” said one member. “I can't resist peeling it. I've been brainwashed.”
Expert verdict
Amid the disagreement, an authoritative voice rose. Australian mushroomsthis settled the debate once and for all.
“There's no need to peel mushrooms,” confirms the FAQ on the official Aussie Mushrooms website. “Not only does it take more time, but the skin is packed with nutrients and flavour.” Instead, they recommend wiping them with a damp cloth or soft brush to remove any dirt.
As for concerns about “poop”: Australian mushrooms Also, if there is compost left on your mushrooms when you buy them, you can simply brush it off.
Furthermore, the Australian Mushroom Growers Association backed up this opinion.
“With modern farming methods, mushroom compost is pasteurized,” they explain, “so there's no need to wash or peel the mushrooms; just brush off any light residue with a paper towel.”
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Just in case you're still worried, food scientist and nutrition researcher Dr. Vincent Candrawinatha (known as Dr. Vincent) also says that most mushrooms you buy at the supermarket have already been washed, so peeling them isn't generally necessary unless you have a specific reason to do so.
But he urges shoppers to “always inspect mushrooms for signs of spoilage, such as slime or a strong, unpleasant odor.”
So whether you're a seasoned chef or a home cook, the conclusion is clear: when it comes to mushrooms, leave them unpeeled and enjoy their flavorful and nutrient-rich skins.
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