Onion, chili, and garlic are essential ingredients in daily cooking. As they are frequently used, homemakers often buy them in bulk for long-term use. Knowing how to store them properly will keep them fresh, preserving their flavor and nutritional value.
There are many tips to prolong the shelf life of onion, chili, and garlic. (Image: Adobe Stock)
Tips for Storing Onion
Many homemakers face the challenge of keeping onions fresh after purchase. Here are some of the most effective onion storage tips you can try.
Choose Fresh Onions
To store onions for an extended period, it is crucial to select freshly harvested onions that are free from bruises and damage. Look for bright green bunches with sturdy stems and no signs of wilting or yellowing leaves.
Store Onions in the Refrigerator
One of the most popular methods to keep onions fresh is to store them in the refrigerator. Wash the onions thoroughly to remove dirt and chemicals, then dry them with a paper towel or let them air dry.
Wrap the onions in a slightly damp paper towel, place them in a bag, and tie it closed. The paper towel will maintain the onions’ moisture, while the bag will limit air exposure, helping them stay fresh for longer.
Store Onions in a Glass of Water
If you don’t need to store the onions for too long, try growing them in a glass of water. Simply submerge the onion roots in water and place the glass in a naturally lit area. The onions will continue to grow, and you can use them as needed.
Soaking onions in water helps prolong their shelf life. (Image: Tasting Table)
Freezing Onions
For long-term storage, you can chop onions into small pieces and place them in ziplock bags before freezing. When cooking, you can directly use the frozen onions without thawing. While this method may cause a slight loss of crispness, the flavor will remain intact.
Using Glass Jars
Another tip for storing onions is to use glass jars. After cleaning and drying the onions, place them in a jar with a small amount of water at the bottom, close the lid, and store the jar in the refrigerator’s crisper drawer. This method not only prolongs the freshness of the onions but also encourages the growth of new roots.
Tips for Storing Chili for an Extended Period
The following are some tips to keep chili fresh, ensuring its quality over a long period.
Choose Fresh Chili
To store chili for a long time, select fresh, undamaged chilies with no signs of wilting or brown spots. Fresh chilies have plump skins, bright colors, and no wrinkles. These are the best qualities to look for when aiming for long-term storage.
Store Chili in the Refrigerator’s Crisper Drawer
Many people have the habit of washing produce before storing it, but with chili, it is best to wash it just before use. The moisture from water can cause the chili to soften and rot quickly.
After purchasing chili, place it in the refrigerator’s crisper drawer. Store the chili in a plastic bag with air holes or wrap it in absorbent paper to maintain moisture without causing waterlogging, which can lead to rot. The ideal temperature for storing chili is between 3 and 7 degrees Celsius.
Drying or Freezing Chili
Besides storing fresh chili, you can also dry it by sun-drying or using a food dehydrator. Dried chili can be ground into chili powder for later use.
If you want to preserve the chili’s flavor for an extended period, you can cut it into slices and freeze it.
Soaking Chili in Vinegar and Oil
Soaking chili in vinegar and oil is a traditional and effective preservation method. Not only does it prolong the shelf life of the chili, but it also adds a unique flavor to your dishes. Remember to sterilize the storage jar before soaking the chili to ensure food safety.
Soaking chili in vinegar keeps it fresh for longer. (Image: Finishedwithsalt)
Tips for Long-Term Garlic Storage
The following are some tips to help you keep garlic fresh for a more extended period.
Store Garlic in a Dry and Well-Ventilated Area
Garlic should be stored in a cool, dry, and dark place. Room temperature is ideal for preventing garlic from sprouting too early. Avoid storing garlic near the stove or in areas with high humidity, as this can cause it to spoil quickly.
Garlic needs good ventilation to stay fresh longer. You can store it in a mesh bag or a paper bag to ensure proper airflow. Avoid using plastic bags, as they can trap moisture, leading to mold or rot.
If possible, keep the garlic bulbs intact and separate the cloves as needed to extend their shelf life. Intact garlic bulbs can last for several months, while individual cloves typically last for about a week.
Freezing Garlic
Freezing is another option for long-term garlic storage. You can peel and mince the garlic, then place it in a sealed bag before putting it in the freezer. Frozen garlic can be used directly in cooking without thawing.
Soaking Garlic in Oil
Soaking garlic in oil is a preservation method that not only maintains the flavor of the cloves but also infuses the oil with garlic flavor. Store the mixture in the refrigerator and use it within two weeks to avoid the risk of harmful bacteria growth.
Soaking garlic in oil prolongs its shelf life. (Image: Plantura)
Dehydrating Garlic
If you have a dehydrator, try dehydrating garlic. Slice the garlic into thin pieces and dehydrate until crispy. Store the dehydrated garlic in an airtight glass jar in a cool place. Dehydrated garlic not only lasts longer but also makes a convenient spice.
According to VTC News
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