SAEDNEWS: Properly storing fresh herbs in the fridge can keep them fresh longer and reduce frequent shopping trips.
According to SAEDNEWS: Having fresh herbs at home is a great habit that contributes to a healthy diet. Whether you buy them from the market or harvest them from your garden, they all require proper care to stay fresh until consumption. In this article, we will reveal the best ways to keep herbs fresh for a long time.
Some people believe that storing unwashed herbs in the refrigerator helps them last longer. However, this is not hygienic because the bacteria and dirt on unwashed herbs can spread inside the fridge and contaminate other foods. Instead, here are simple and effective solutions to keep herbs fresh while maintaining food safety.
One of the best ways to store herbs in the refrigerator for a long time is to clean them immediately. Leaving soil, yellow leaves, or wilted parts among the fresh herbs can cause spoilage.
Best way to wash herbs:
Soak the herbs in water mixed with salt and vinegar for 10 to 15 minutes.
Rinse them thoroughly with clean water.
Drain the water completely using a colander.
Important tip:
Never use dish soap to wash herbs, as it does not rinse off completely and can cause food poisoning.
One of the biggest reasons for herbs wilting and rotting is leftover moisture on their leaves. To avoid this:
Place the herbs in a colander and toss them gently to speed up drying.
Use a dry cloth or paper towel to absorb excess moisture.
Placing the stems of the herbs in water helps retain their freshness for a longer time.
After cleaning the herbs, immerse the stems in a jar of water.
Cover the leaves with plastic wrap to keep them from drying out.
Place washed and dried herbs in a plastic bag or freezer bag.
Tie the bag loosely, leaving some air inside to prevent crushing the leaves.
A traditional and effective method for keeping herbs fresh is to store them in a pot:
Place the herbs inside a dry pot.
Cover them with a clean cotton cloth to maintain freshness for 5 to 6 days.
Make sure the herbs are completely dry before placing them in the pot.
Plastic containers are one of the best options for keeping herbs fresh:
After washing and drying the herbs, place a paper towel at the bottom of a plastic container.
Add the herbs and cover them with another layer of paper towel.
Seal the container tightly to prevent air from entering.
Here’s a storage guide for common herbs and their shelf life in the fridge:
Parsley – 3 weeks
Dill – 3 weeks
Cilantro – 3 weeks
Mint – 2 weeks
Tarragon – 3 weeks
Basil – 2 weeks
Rosemary – 3 weeks
Oregano – 2 weeks
Thyme – 2 weeks
Sage – 2 weeks
Savory – 2 weeks
Green onions – 1 week
Even with the best storage methods, herbs will eventually spoil. When buying fresh produce, pay attention to their shelf life and purchase only what you need. By following these techniques, you can reduce waste and keep your herbs fresh for longer.
