Scallions, like cilantro, are a popular herb loved by many. Research shows that scallions are rich in vitamins and nutrients that are beneficial to our health. They are also a flavor-enhancing spice.
Despite their many uses, scallions perish quickly. If not stored properly, scallions will wither and rot, becoming unusable.
Most people make the mistake of storing scallions directly in the refrigerator. However, this can actually cause them to wilt and spoil faster.
So, what can be done if you’ve bought too many scallions and don’t want them to go to waste? Check out these three methods to keep them fresh for months, or even a year, as if they were just picked from the garden.
3 Rules for Storing Scallions
To successfully store scallions and prevent them from spoiling, keep these three rules in mind:
1. Don’t Wash the Scallions
It is a common mistake to wash scallions immediately after purchasing them and then storing them in the refrigerator. This should be avoided, as scallions tend to rot easily when exposed to water. Moreover, the layer of mud on the surface of the scallions acts as a protective layer, helping them stay fresh longer.
2. Keep Scallions Dry
Use paper or a clean cloth to absorb any moisture on the surface of the scallions. Doing so will extend their shelf life.
3. Leave the Roots and Leaves Intact
Cutting off the roots and leaves creates an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive, leading to quicker spoilage.
Simple and Effective Methods to Store Scallions
1. Store in a Cardboard Box
One effective method to store scallions is to use a cardboard box.
First, let the scallions air-dry in a cool, well-ventilated area. Once they are completely dry, place them in a cardboard box with the roots facing down and the leaves pointing up. This method can keep scallions fresh for several months.
2. Refrigerate the Scallions
A common practice is to store scallions in the refrigerator. To do this, clean the scallions, trim the roots, and remove any leaves that show signs of rot or damage.
Thoroughly wash the scallions and spray a thin layer of saline solution on their surface. The saline solution will help eliminate harmful bacteria. Allow the scallions to air-dry in a cool, well-ventilated area.
Once dry, place the scallions in a ziplock bag or wrap them in plastic wrap. Store the bag in the freezer compartment of your refrigerator. This method can keep scallions fresh for 7-8 months. Note that once removed from the freezer, the scallions should be used immediately and not refrozen.
3. Bury the Scallions in Soil
Another popular method is to bury the scallions in soil. Simply plant the roots in a pot of soil, and they will remain fresh. If you don’t have a pot of soil, you can place the scallions in a cup of water. Like soil, water will help keep the scallions fresh for an extended period.
For the “water culture” method, remember to change the water every 10 days to ensure the scallions remain fresh and thrive. It’s important not to submerge the scallions completely in water; just enough water to cover the roots is sufficient.
According to the Literary Arts Journal
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