The following are 10 types of food that can be stored for much longer than you think, provided you know how to preserve them properly.
1. Berries
Berries are not only great for making smoothies but also as ingredients in various dishes. The only downside to these fruits is their short shelf life. If not stored properly, they can easily spoil.
According to experienced chefs, berries can be kept fresh for up to a year if you follow this method:
– Rinse the berries thoroughly and let them air dry.
– Place the berries in a zip lock bag, seal it tightly, and then store it in the freezer.
2. Vegetables
Freezing is not the only way to preserve vegetables. For generations, Vietnamese people have been using a traditional method of preservation that allows vegetables to be stored for much longer — pickling.
In fact, all types of vegetables can be pickled, with cucumbers and cabbage being the most common. A survey showed that pickled cucumbers can be stored for up to 2 years.
The pickling process involves soaking the vegetables in a mixture of vinegar, water, and salt (sugar can be added for taste). Don’t forget to use a weight to keep the vegetables submerged, as this will prolong their shelf life.
3. Carrots
You may not know this, but carrots typically last for about 1-2 weeks. However, there is a way to extend their shelf life up to 25 years without spoilage — by drying them.
To do this, first, peel and thoroughly wash the carrots, then cut them into bite-sized pieces. Sun-dry or machine-dry the carrots until they are completely dehydrated. This form of carrot storage is very effective as the removal of moisture prevents decay.
4. Apples
Similar to carrots, apples can be stored for an extended period if they are dried. Research has shown that dried apples can be preserved for up to 20 years without any change in taste or quality.
To achieve this, wash the apples, blanch them in hot water, and then dry them thoroughly. Store the apple slices in airtight containers or jars.
5. Nuts
Nuts are a great source of protein and can be stored for extended periods without spoilage. However, storing them this way can easily lead to mold due to moisture.
To prolong the shelf life of nuts, spread them out and let them dry completely before placing them in zip lock bags. Then, store the bags in the freezer. This method can preserve nuts for 1-2 years without altering their flavor. Some nuts, like almonds, can be stored for even longer.
6. Fruit Syrups
Fruit syrups can be preserved indefinitely if stored correctly. Simply pour the syrup into jars, seal them tightly, and freeze. Fruit syrups are great on toast or in baking and candy-making.
7. Canned Fish
Canned fish has a long shelf life. For example, canned tuna can be stored for up to 3 years. However, once opened, the contents should be consumed within 1-7 days to prevent spoilage.
8. Honey
Honey is often used as a substitute for sugar and as a remedy for sore throats and coughs. It can be stored indefinitely, provided it is kept in an airtight glass jar and placed in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight.
9. Powdered Milk
Unlike fresh milk, which spoils quickly, powdered milk has a very long shelf life. It can be stored for up to 25 years, provided it is kept in an airtight container away from moisture.
10. Vinegar
Vinegar and honey are opposites, but they share the trait of indefinite preservation. To store vinegar for a long time, simply pour it into a jar, seal it tightly, and keep it away from heat and light. If done properly, vinegar can be stored for a very long time without spoilage.
