Tips for drying and storage

This is how you dry the fly agaric properly at home!

Proper drying and storage of fly agarics is crucial to maintaining their quality and natural properties. In this guide, you will learn step by step how to properly dry and store fly agarics to preserve them in the best possible way.

1. Why proper drying is important

Drying fly agarics removes moisture and protects them from mold or spoilage. At the same time, it helps to preserve valuable ingredients such as muscimol and other bioactive substances. Improper drying, on the other hand, can affect the quality and render the mushrooms unusable.

2. The best methods for drying fly agarics

There are various techniques for gently drying fly agarics. Here are the most effective methods:

A. Air drying

  • Step 1: Gently clean the toadstools with a brush or cloth to remove dirt and soil. Avoid washing the mushrooms with water as this will prolong the drying time.
  • Step 2: Cut the mushrooms into thin slices to help them dry faster. Alternatively, you can dry smaller caps whole.
  • Step 3: Place the mushrooms on a rack or clean cloth, making sure they are not touching each other to ensure even air circulation.
  • Step 4: Place the rack in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight. Drying may take several days depending on the humidity and size of the mushrooms.
  • Tip: Turn the mushrooms regularly to ensure they dry evenly.

B. Drying in the oven

  • Step 1: Clean the mushrooms as described above.
  • Step 2: Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure the pieces are not on top of each other.
  • Step 3: Set the oven to a low temperature (40-50 °C) and leave the door slightly open to allow moisture to escape.
  • Step 4: Dry the mushrooms for several hours until they are completely dry, checking them regularly to avoid overheating.

C. Drying device (dehydrator)

  • Step 1: Clean the mushrooms as usual.
  • Step 2: Place them on the dehydrator racks, making sure they are evenly distributed.
  • Step 3: Set the device to 40-50 °C and dry the mushrooms for 6-12 hours, depending on their thickness and moisture content.
  • Tip: A dehydrator offers the most consistent and efficient method because the temperature remains constant.

3. How do you know that the mushrooms are completely dry?

  • The mushrooms should feel dry and brittle. If they still feel pliable or moist, the drying process is not complete.
  • Cut a piece: there should be no moisture visible inside.

4. Tips for storing fly agarics

After drying, proper storage is crucial to keep the mushrooms fresh and effective in the long term.

A. Pack airtight

  • Use airtight containers, such as glass jars with screw tops or vacuum bags.
  • Make sure the containers are clean and dry before placing the mushrooms in them.

B. Protection from light and moisture

  • Store the containers in a cool, dry and dark place, such as a cupboard or pantry.
  • Avoid direct sunlight as UV light can break down the ingredients.

C. Use of silica gel or desiccants

  • Add silica gel packets or other desiccants to reduce residual moisture in the containers.

D. Regular inspection

  • Check the mushrooms periodically for signs of moisture or mold. If they become damp, dry them again.

5. Shelf life of dried fly agarics

  • When dried and stored properly, dried fly agarics can last up to a year or more.
  • Label the containers with the drying date to keep track of shelf life.

6. Common mistakes and how to avoid them

  • Mistake: Washing the mushrooms before drying.
    • Solution: Use a brush or cloth to remove dirt instead.
  • Error: Temperatures too high during drying.
    • Solution: Keep the temperature below 50 °C to protect the ingredients.
  • Mistake: Storage in plastic containers.
    • Solution: Use glass containers that do not retain moisture.

Conclusion: Perfect drying and storage for long-lasting quality

Proper drying and storage of fly agarics is an important step to preserve their natural properties and quality. With the tips above, you can ensure that your fly agarics are optimally dried and safely stored. This way, you can use them for your applications at any time and enjoy their uniqueness.🌿