How to Purchase Strawberries
Because strawberries don’t ripen after being picked, choosing the best ones to buy or pick is crucial, unlike with other fruits.
Look for strawberries that have a vibrant red color from tip to top, are plump and soft, and have healthy, green leaves at the top. Steer clear of berry containers that seem wet or discolored, or that hold overripe, cracked, damaged, or mushy fruit.
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How to Store Strawberries
While berries in their original packaging are fine for a day or two, the areas where the berries are coming into contact with each other are going to be prone to bruising and softening, which can lead to mold growth,” air circulation is crucial.
Move unwashed berries to a container lined with paper towels, like a shallow bowl, tray, or wide food storage container, to lessen the chance of smashed berries. Strawberries can also be kept in an airtight mason jar, if preferred. For up to five days, keep them in your refrigerator’s high-humidity crisper drawer, which should be kept at 40°F or lower.
When to Rinse Strawberries
As previously said, storing strawberries in their raw state is ideal.
More moisture promotes the formation of mold and the deterioration of the fruit. Wash strawberries right before serving, if at all feasible.
If you would much rather have a head start, continue reading to find out how to wash strawberries in advance and a bonus step to prolong their shelf life.
How to Wash Strawberries
If you intend to consume strawberries within three days of picking or purchasing, use the following procedure for washing them:
- Keep the dry, unwashed fruit in the refrigerator in a container lined with paper towels in a single layer.
- When the berries are ready to be eaten, put them all in a colander and give them a quick washing in cool water.
- Slice off the stems with a knife, then eat the strawberries whole (if small) or in any desirable cut.
if you’re looking for a way to wash strawberries ahead of time or want to preserve them for a few extra days:
- Place the entire berries in a basin and add one part vinegar to three parts water. Give the berries 20 minutes to soak.
- After soaking, transfer the entire berry mixture to a colander and gently wash it with cold water.
- Dry each berry completely with paper towels or in a salad spinner loaded with paper towels.
- Store the dried and cleaned berries in the refrigerator in a container lined with paper towels in a single layer.
- When the berries are ready to be eaten, cut off the stems with a knife. Strawberries can be sliced to taste, or the berries can be enjoyed whole (if small).
To guarantee the finest outcomes and longest storage, it is crucial to get the berries extremely dry after washing.
We were able to keep the berries in storage for a longer period of time before mildew and deterioration showed up. We were able to preserve the freshness of the berries we bought for an entire week! According to some sources, berries can be refrigerated for up to 14 days, but we haven’t seen these results and who would want to waste beautiful berries with a shelf life so short?
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