How to store produce?

Why do I write this post now? Just like my recycling post, this is yet another thought that's been sitting in my mind for way too long. The main reason behind this is " The better stored produce stays fresh longer" one less reason to throw away the produce

General Guidelines:

• While buying look for fresher, good and non-damaged produce. I already posted how to buy vegetable for few basic vegetables. This is no brainer. Good things stay fresh longer.

• Damaged vegetables cause molds to form easily and will turn all the vegetables / fruit bad. Remember 'One bad apple spoils the bunch'

• Clean the refrigerator every time before reloading with the new produce.

• Use a liner, paper towel, or thin cloth in the crisper draw to absorb any extra moisture.

• Always store vegetables and fruits separately. The fruits ripen faster than vegetables.

Produce that don't need refrigeration:

• Any type of potatoes, onions and garlic.

• Avocado, oranges, banana's, pineapple, melons and fruits that are not ripe

• Tomatoes taste better when not refrigerated. But I do, because I buy in bulk and they ripen quickly when stored outside

• Apart from produce - Bread, spices and flour

Tip: If stored on counter top or tiered basket, store them away from direct sunlight

For Vegetables:

• Always wash veggies only before use. If washed and refrigerated there is a very high chance they go bad easily

• Always store vegetables in the crisper draw (Especially loose vegetables like carrot, bell peppers, zucchini, beans)

• The first rack is little warmer than other so I always store cilantro, curry leaves and cling sheet wrapped watery veggies like winter melons and pumpkin.

• Do not keep produce in covers and tied up. Again moisture is bad. Although if the produces comes packed leave it like that.

• Store Greens like spinach and mint leaves in plastic cover tied with lots of air inside. Store those in the crisper draw.

• Store green chili and ginger in an open container if stored in refrigerator. Although green chilli and ginger freezes well. Check my How To’s post

Half  cut/used Vegetables:

• I always cut my veggies and store the rest in freezer. It works like a charm. I have it handy when needed and reduces the wastage. Below vegetables stay longer when cut and frozen

  • Ash gourd

  • Bitter gourd

  • Pumpkin

  • green chilli

  • okra / lady's finger

  • Bell peppers

• If you don’t freeze store them in airtight container.

Tips:

If you don’t want to keep apples from browning, soak it in lemon water / salt water for few minutes and give it a quick rinse and box it.