We’re fortunate to have strawberries available all year round, at their best when they’re firm, sweet, and perfectly ripe.
Regrettably, this prime freshness is fleeting, with many strawberries rapidly turning soft and mushy. However, food storage experts from NRC Business Waste have revealed a crucial storage rule that can prolong the shelf life of strawberries by weeks.
They suggest that using a glass jar can make a significant difference in preventing strawberries from spoiling prematurely. A glass jar serves as a shield, safeguarding strawberries from mould by reducing their exposure to air and moisture, reports the Liverpool Echo.
When stored correctly in the fridge, strawberries can stay fresh for up to three weeks. But it’s vital to clean them before storing.
Here’s how to wash and store strawberries so they stay fresh for weeks:
1. Wash and soak in vinegar solution
Put the strawberries in a large bowl and rinse them thoroughly under running water to get rid of any dirt or bacteria. Then, immerse the berries in a solution of 60ml of white vinegar and two litres of water.
But only let them soak for two minutes; otherwise, they will start to ferment and spoil prematurely.
2. Dry thoroughly before storing
After the strawberries have soaked, drain them gently in a colander. Ensure they are completely dry before storing: lay the berries on a clean towel for a few hours.
Any leftover moisture will make them spoil quicker.
3. Store in a glass jar
Once they’re completely dry, put a clean paper towel at the bottom of a sterilised glass jar and gently add the strawberries. Store the jar in the fridge, and you’ll have fresh strawberries to savour for the next three weeks.
Alternatively, freezing your strawberries is an option, and doing this quickly helps them retain more nutrients. To freeze, thoroughly wash and dry the strawberries, then place them in a sealable bag or airtight container before popping them in the freezer.
Frozen strawberries can remain fresh for 10 to 12 months and can be defrosted for use in various recipes.