Pork is a staple food in Vietnamese cuisine. It is versatile, easy to cook, nutritious, and more affordable than other types of meat or fish.
Due to health concerns or busy schedules, some families have the habit of shopping for groceries once a week. This includes stocking up on pork.
Usually, we wash the meat, put it in a sealed bag or container, and then store it in the freezer. While this method is correct and doesn’t cause any loss of nutrients, it can make the meat lose its moisture, resulting in dry and less tasty meat when cooked.
Instead, try the following tip to ensure your pork stays fresh, juicy, and tender even when stored in the freezer.
The Best Way to Store Pork
Step 1: When you buy pork, divide it into portions that are enough for one meal for your family.
Step 2: Wash the pork to remove any dirt or impurities. The best way to do this is to soak the meat in a basin of clean water with a little white vinegar, a tablespoon of flour, and half a teaspoon of salt. Stir the mixture until everything is dissolved, and then soak the meat for 20 minutes.
Step 3: Remove the meat from the basin and rinse it with clean water 2-3 more times.
Step 4: Use paper towels to absorb any excess water on the surface of the meat. This step is important to prevent moisture buildup, which can affect the taste and texture of the meat.
Step 5: Use a brush to apply a thin layer of cooking oil on the surface of the meat. The oil creates a protective barrier, sealing in moisture and nutrients, and separating the meat from the air, thus preserving its flavor and freshness.
Step 6: Wrap the meat tightly with plastic wrap, making sure to expel as much air as possible. If air is left inside, condensation will form on the meat, causing it to dry out.
Step 7: Finally, place the wrapped pork in the freezer. When you’re ready to cook, take out the amount you need, and you’ll have fresh, tender, and juicy meat every time.
According to Khoevadep
The Ultimate Guide to Meat Preservation: Keep Your Meat Fresh for Up to Six Months
If you’re a pork lover and tend to buy in bulk, it’s important to know the right way to store it to maintain its freshness and quality. Instead of rushing to stash it in the fridge, there’s a simple extra step you can take to ensure your pork stays fresh and tastes just as delicious as the day you bought it.