Preserve your strawberries: Tips to keep them fresh longer
Strawberries are some of the most delicate fruits and can quickly lose their freshness. During the season, they are usually sold in plastic bags at markets or bazaars, often leading to more storage errors. So, how can you store strawberries to prevent them from ending up in the bin?
Strawberries need special care immediately after purchase. They are soft and easily damaged, which causes them to lose freshness rapidly. To store strawberries correctly, a few simple rules should be followed. Avoid moisture and bruising the fruit, and ensure they are fresh when purchasing. This is a common mistake that affects us right from the moment of buying these seasonal treats.
Common mistakes when buying strawberries
When buying strawberries, note their freshness and firmness. Avoid putting them in single-use plastic bags, as this can cause bruising. It's advisable to buy strawberries in smaller quantities to prevent waste. If possible, take them home in a punnet (often at an extra cost, but at a friendly place, you might arrange to return it on your next purchase in exchange for another one for a small fee). If you don't eat them immediately upon returning home, it's better not to store them in the fridge with the punnet.
How to extend the freshness of strawberries?
If you want to keep strawberries fresh for longer, lay them flat in a dish lined with kitchen paper. The paper will absorb excess moisture, helping to preserve the fruit. Remember to sort through the strawberries and remove any that are already bruised. For longer freshness, it's advisable not to wash the strawberries immediately or remove the stems. You can also freeze the strawberries whole or blend them and freeze as well.
