Blueberries are a delicious fruit enjoyed in hot weather and can be eaten raw as a healthy snack, mixed with yogurt or lettuce, or used in baking. Unfortunately, incorrect storage can spoil the taste of blueberries. In some cases, it can even make blueberries mushy and moldy. This article will show you how to properly store blueberries in the refrigerator or freezer.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Preparing Blueberries for Saving
Step 1. Sort the blueberries
Find and discard blueberries that are white moldy. This fungus can usually be found in the stalk area. You should also throw away fruit that is too soft or looks wilted as this is a sign that the fruit is overripe and will rot quickly. Separating moldy fruit from fresh fruit will prevent mold from spreading.
Step 2. Pick the stalk
Most stalks should come off on their own, but you should also check them again and pick off any remaining stalks. Blueberry stalks taste bitter, but there is no problem if you eat them.
Step 3. Consider washing it with a mixture of one part vinegar and three parts water
In general, blueberries should not be washed unless they are about to be eaten. Washing it too early can lead to mold growth. However, washing it with a mixture of water and vinegar can actually kill mold spores and prevent mold from growing. Place the blueberries in a perforated container or strainer, then dip them in a bowl of the vinegar-water mixture. Shake the container or strainer, then remove. Rinse the blueberries in cold water to remove the sour taste of the vinegar.
Step 4. Make sure the blueberries are dry
Damp fruit will easily mold. So, make sure the fruit is completely dry before storing it. There are several ways to dry blueberries:
- Place the blueberries in a lettuce stirrer that has been lined with several sheets of tissue paper. Then, spin it for a few seconds until it dries.
- Arrange the fruit on a tray and allow to air dry. You can use a fan to speed up the process.
Method 2 of 3: Storing Blueberries in the Fridge
Step 1. Prepare a container with holes such as a basket and wash it thoroughly
You can use a ceramic bowl that has a hole or a plastic basket that was originally packaged for the fruit. The container you use should have small holes to provide adequate ventilation.
Avoid using metal containers. Blueberries can react with metals, causing them to fade and contaminate the container and fruit
Step 2. Fold the tissue paper and place it on the bottom of the basket
If you are using a larger container such as a bowl, use several sheets of tissue paper without folding them.
Step 3. Arrange the fruit on the tissue paper
The tissue paper will help absorb moisture and prevent mold from growing.
Step 4. Store blueberries in the refrigerator
Do not store it in the coldest part because cold temperatures can damage the fruit. The best place to store it is on the middle or bottom shelf. As much as possible do not store blueberries in the crisper section. This section is too humid and does not have good air circulation. This kind of condition can trigger the growth of fungus. Blueberries stored in the refrigerator can last five to ten days.
The coldest part of the refrigerator is at the top
Method 3 of 3: Storing Blueberries in the Freezer
Step 1. Arrange the blueberries so they don't stack on top of each other in a shallow tray
You will freeze the blueberries one by one first. This will prevent them from sticking together and clumping together. You can also use a baking sheet, heatproof dish, or cookie sheet. If you're using a metal cookware, consider coating it with parchment paper first to protect the blueberries.
Step 2. Put the tray in the freezer and wait for the blueberries to freeze
It takes about two to three hours to fully freeze blueberries.
Step 3. Transfer the fruit to freezer-safe plastic clips
Carefully remove the tray from the freezer so that no fruit falls. You can move the fruit by hand or simply tilt the tray over the plastic opening to allow the blueberries to slide into the plastic easily.
Step 4. Cover the plastic clip and put it in the freezer
Blueberries stored in the freezer can last up to a year.
