Trimming and slicing mushrooms are worth the effort because of the flavor they impart. Whole mushrooms need some cleaning and trimming — and slicing if the recipe calls for it.
Gently wipe away dirt from the mushrooms.
![Gently wipe away dirt from the mushrooms.](https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/88607.image0.jpg)
Use a damp paper towel or a dish towel.
Cut off the mushroom stems.
![Cut off the mushroom stems.](https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/88609.image2.jpg)
The stems typically aren’t eaten.
Place the mushroom caps, flat-side down, and slice them perpendicular to the cutting board.
![Place the mushroom caps, flat-side down, and slice them perpendicular to the cutting board.](https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/88611.image4.jpg)
This technique gives you strips of mushroom at whatever thickness you cut them.
If you want smaller pieces of mushroom, slice the caps again at a 90-degree angle from the original slices.
![If you want smaller pieces of mushroom, slice the caps again at a 90-degree angle from the original slices.](https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/88613.image6.jpg)
You can use these smaller chunks in soups and sauces, for example.