Tips

The Ultimate Guide to Storing Water Spinach: 3 Simple Steps to Keep it Fresh for Weeks

To keep water spinach fresh and nutritious for as long as possible is a challenging task for anyone.

12 July, 2024

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Water spinach is a nutritious and popular dish in Vietnamese cuisine. It is often served as a side dish or added to soups and stir-fries. While it is best enjoyed fresh, there may be times when you purchase more than you can consume immediately. Here are some tips to help you properly store water spinach and keep it fresh for up to a week.

1. How to Store Water Spinach

Step 1: Pick through the water spinach and remove any damaged leaves or stems. These parts tend to spoil faster and can affect the rest of the bunch.

Step 2: Divide the water spinach into smaller portions. It is recommended to portion it according to the amount you would typically use in a meal for added convenience.

Step 3: Use newspaper or paper towels to wrap the portions. This helps to absorb excess moisture and keep the water spinach fresh. Finally, store the wrapped portions in the refrigerator to extend their shelf life.

2. Additional Tips for Storing Water Spinach

Prefer Using Plastic Bags or Food Wrap

To prevent moisture loss in water spinach (water spinach requires a humidity level of up to 80%, while the refrigerator typically maintains around 65%), consider using plastic bags or food wrap. These options create a barrier that helps retain moisture.

Note: Opt for bags and wraps made from PP (polypropylene) material to ensure the safety of your food.

Avoid Washing Water Spinach Immediately After Purchase

Resist the urge to wash water spinach right after buying it. While it may seem like a good idea to keep it “fresh,” doing so can actually accelerate spoilage. Instead, place a dry paper towel inside the bag with the water spinach to absorb excess moisture and prevent rotting. If the leaves are particularly dirty, gently wipe them with a damp cloth before storing.

Adjust Your Refrigerator Temperature Accordingly

Store water spinach in the refrigerator, ideally in the crisper drawer. Maintain a temperature between 4-5 degrees Celsius to slow down the loss of nutrients and prevent bacterial growth. This temperature range will help keep the water spinach fresh and safe to consume for a longer period.

Do Not Cut Water Spinach Before Storing

Avoid cutting water spinach into small pieces before storing it. Cutting the vegetable increases the surface area exposed to air, accelerating nutrient loss and promoting the growth of harmful bacteria. Instead, keep the water spinach intact and follow the portioning advice mentioned earlier for convenient storage.

By following these simple steps and tips, you can effectively store water spinach and enjoy its freshness for a longer period. We hope you found this guide helpful, and happy cooking!

Frequently asked questions

Water spinach will last about 2-3 weeks if stored properly in the fridge.

The best way to store water spinach is to first trim the ends and remove any damaged leaves. Then, wash the water spinach thoroughly and dry it completely. Finally, wrap the water spinach in a dry paper towel and place it in a plastic bag or container before storing it in the refrigerator.

Yes, you can freeze water spinach. Blanch the water spinach first, then plunge it into ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain the water spinach and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container before storing it in the freezer.

Fresh water spinach should have bright green leaves and crisp stems. If the leaves are wilted or yellow, or if the stems are slimy, the water spinach is no longer fresh and should be discarded.

It is not recommended to store water spinach at room temperature as it will spoil quickly. It is best to store it in the refrigerator to extend its shelf life.