2023-10-09 06:00:26
There are always doubts regarding how to preserve fruits and vegetables. How long? How to do it correctly? etc…
Storing food in a refrigerator is an ideal way to keep it in good condition. For this reason, there are different methods for preserving peppers, onions and tomatoes, which are three of the most used products in cooking.
They add flavor, color and nutrients to our dishes. But they can also deteriorate if not stored properly. If you are looking for tips for storing them, whole or cut, in the refrigerator or freezer, this article is for you.
How to preserve the flavor and freshness of peppers?
Peppers are a good source of vitamin C, antioxidants and fiber. If we need to eat them soon, we can store them whole in the vegetable drawer of the refrigerator, without cleaning or cutting them. This way they will maintain their freshness for a week or two.
If we have cut or roasted peppers, we can store them in a container with a lid or in a plastic bag that can be closed. This way they will keep for up to five days in the refrigerator.
Another option is to freeze peppers, whether raw or roasted. You have to wash them, dry them, remove the seeds and cut them into pieces. Then we put them on a tray and put them in the freezer for a few hours. When frozen, we transfer them to a bag or container that serves as a freezer and we keep them for up to 12 months.
According to research, whole peppers stored in the refrigerator at 7°C for 21 days retain their content of vitamin C, carotenoids and phenolic compounds almost intactwhich give them their antioxidant potential.
Follow these tips to improve the storage of peppers:
- Avoid storing peppers near ethylene-producing fruits. Like apples or bananas, because this gas accelerates the ripening and deterioration of vegetables.
- If you want to preserve the peppers in vinegar, you can follow this recipe. Wash then dry the peppers, cut them into strips and put them in a sterilized glass jar. Add a mixture of vinegar, water, salt, sugar, garlic and spices to taste. Finally, cover the jar and let it sit in a cool, dark place for at least a month before consuming it.
- If you want to keep the peppers dry, you can use an electric dehydrator, oven or the sun. Wash and dry the peppers, remove the seeds then cut them into small pieces. Spread them on a tray and dry them using your preferred method until crispy.
Is it better to store peppers whole or cut?
It depends on how long it takes you to consume them. If you plan to use them within a few days, it’s best to keep them whole, so they don’t lose moisture or flavor. If it takes longer or you only need part of the pepper, you can cut it and store it in an airtight container or zip-top bag.
What to do if peppers become soft or wrinkled?
Soft or wrinkled peppers indicate that they have lost water and freshness. It is best to consume them as soon as possible or take the opportunity to make a recipe that requires cooked peppers, such as a stir-fry, sauce or cream.
Also read: Peppers stuffed with quinoa: 2 delicious recipes
What to do to keep onions fresh and in good condition?
Onions are an essential ingredient in many recipes. Because they provide flavor, aroma and nutrients. However, for them to be preserved better and not damaged, certain aspects must be taken into account:
- Choosing onions is the first step to keep them in good condition. The best thing is that they are dry, hard and without germs or signs of moisture or deterioration. Those with black spots or mold should also be discarded.
- If we don’t use the onions for a while, we can store them whole in a cool, dry, dark place, such as a closet or pantry. It is not wise to put them in the refrigerator. Because humidity will cause them to rot or germinate.
- If we have broken or chopped onions, we can store them in the refrigerator. But always in a container with a lid or in a plastic bag that can be closed.
- Onions can be frozen, peeled, washed, dried and cut into pieces. Then we put them on a tray and put them in the freezer for a few hours. Once frozen, we transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them for up to 12 months.
What to do if onions start to sprout?
If the onions start to sprout, it means they are entering their reproductive cycle and losing quality. It is best to consume them as soon as possible. Or plant them in a pot with soil to get new onions.
Can you keep onions in vinegar?
Indeed, pickled onions can be stored provided that a proper sterilization and packaging process is followed. Vinegar acts as a natural preservative that prevents the growth of microorganisms and preserves the flavor and texture of the onions.
Tips for Storing Tomatoes and Extending Their Shelf Life
These vegetables are an excellent source of lycopene, an antioxidant that protects the skin. To keep them in good condition, choose those that are firm, without dents or stains.
If we need to consume them soon, we can store them whole at room temperature. Away from direct sunlight and other ethylene-emitting fruits, such as bananas or apples.
Cut or grated tomatoes can be stored in a container with a lid or in a resealable plastic bag. The air must be removed and the tomatoes dried well before storing them.
You can also freeze them, raw or cooked. To do this, you must wash them, dry them and then remove the stem. Then you put them whole or in pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container and store them for up to 12 months.
Can tomatoes with skin on be frozen?
It is possible to freeze tomatoes with their skins provided they are washed carefully before consumption. When defrosting, the skin will come off easily if submerged in hot water for a few seconds.
Conclusion
By following these tips we can keep peppers, onions and tomatoes longer in the refrigerator. This way we will get the most out of its nutritious and delicious components.
Finally, there are simple ways to keep food longer. Be sure to monitor them regularly and then consume them before they go bad.
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