By the end of December, there is usually a lot of food in the kitchen: tangerines, apples, potatoes, beets, onions. Everything was bought in advance for the festive table. But after just a few days, some fruits become wrinkled, others become moldy, and the vegetables in the box begin to rot or sprout. The problem is not the quality, but how they are stored.
There are simple, proven rules that will help keep everything fresh until the New Year and even longer. It doesn't require special containers or chemicals, just a little attention to detail.
Tangerines and other citrus fruits are best kept in the refrigerator
Place them in the vegetable drawer, but not in a plastic bag. A paper bag or just an open box is ideal to allow air to circulate. If storing in the kitchen, keep it away from radiators and direct light. Check every two days and remove any spoiled fruit immediately.
Apples should not be stored next to other fruits and vegetables.
They release ethylene, a gas that speeds up ripening and spoilage. Keep the apples separately, preferably in a cool place, such as on a glassed-in balcony or in a pantry. Don't put them near carrots, potatoes or herbs.
Store potatoes and onions in different places
Many people keep them together, but this is a mistake. The onions give up moisture, but the potatoes absorb it and begin to rot. The potatoes, in turn, cause the onions to sprout. It is best to store onions in a dry, dark, and well-ventilated place, such as a net, basket, or cardboard box with holes. Keep potatoes cool, away from light. The ideal temperature is from plus two to plus seven degrees. A balcony or storage room works well. Use a burlap bag or box, you can sprinkle with dry salt.
Keep carrots and beets moist but without water.
If storing indoors, wrap each vegetable in newspaper or place in a plastic container with dry sand. In the refrigerator, keep in the vegetable section, but separate from the fruit.
Garlic needs dryness and darkness
Store it in a mason jar with a lid or in a canvas bag. The main thing is that there are no sources of moisture nearby, such as a sink or stove.
Store greens in water
Place dill and parsley with roots in a glass of water and cover with a bag on top. Without roots, wrap in slightly damp paper towel and place in a covered container. This way the greens will remain fresh for up to 10 days.
By following these simple tips, you will keep your food in excellent condition and avoid unnecessary expenses. Everything on the New Year's table will be not only tasty, but also truly fresh.
Question and answer:
Can potatoes be kept in the refrigerator?
No, at low temperatures starch turns into sugar. These potatoes become sweet and darken when fried.
Why do tangerines dry out if you keep them in the kitchen?
Dry air from the batteries takes moisture from the peel. Even at cool temperatures, fruits lose their juiciness if there is no air movement around them.
What to do if the onion sprouts?
It can be safely used. Sprouted onions are safe, just a little less spicy. It can be finely chopped and frozen for first meals.
