With years of experience in the drying business, Ms. Huynh Thu shares valuable tips for selecting delicious dried products and methods for proper preservation.
For dried shrimp
– How to choose: It is recommended to choose sun-dried shrimp with a light orange or red color. The shrimp should still have its shell during the drying process to preserve its sweetness and prevent flies and dust from affecting the meat inside.
When holding the shrimp, it should not be wet and sticky. Sticky shrimp indicates high moisture content, which can result in a foul smell if not consumed promptly.
When selecting dried shrimp, tear one to check if it is brittle and dry. The shrimp should have a distinct aroma, free from fishy or salty odors, and should taste sweet and fresh when eaten.
If choosing the soft type of dried shrimp, it is prone to developing an unpleasant smell. Therefore, it is advisable to choose the hard type.
– How to preserve:
Method 1: Vacuum seal and store in the freezer or at room temperature.
Method 2: Wrap in newspaper or parchment paper, place in a plastic bag, and then freeze.
Method 3: Store in a glass container or a sealed plastic container with a moisture absorber to maintain freshness.
Method 4: Divide into small portions and store in both the refrigerator and freezer.
If storing in the refrigerator, it is best to consume within 2-4 weeks. Extended storage combined with an overloaded refrigerator can lead to spoilage due to temperature changes. For larger quantities, divide into two portions for freezer and refrigerator storage.
For dried squid
– How to choose: Select clean squid with a thick texture and minimal powder. It should have a sweet and fragrant taste when consumed.
– How to preserve:
Method 1: Layer alternating layers of squid and paper, place them in a paper box, wrap with a plastic bag, and freeze. Using paper to wrap the squid helps prevent discoloration and reduce powder formation.
Method 2: Vacuum seal the squid to prevent odor and save space, then freeze.
For dried fish
– How to choose: When selecting young snakehead fish, opt for those with white meat. White meat indicates freshness and proper sun-drying. Insufficient sunlight exposure during drying can cause the meat to turn yellow.
Finding good-quality snakehead fish can be challenging. Choose dry, firm fish with a mild taste. It is advisable to purchase from places that guarantee no added salt. High-quality snakehead fish should not have a muddy smell during processing, and the meat should be firm.
Same as dried squid.
Making Dried Shrimp at Home This Tet – No Sunshine Required!
Are you looking for a delicious, homemade treat to serve during Tet? Try making this tasty dried shrimp dish – you won’t want to buy from outside once you’ve tasted it!