Whether you've picked up cherry tomatoes, unripe tomatoes, or fresh ones from the store, and plan to make tomato sauce or a summer salad, it's essential to know the right way to store them to keep them fresh for longer. Sometimes, tomatoes stocked in the kitchen can spoil or rot quickly. To prevent this, here are a few easy tips on how to store tomatoes and keep them fresh for a longer time.
Tips To Keep Tomatoes Fresh For Long Time
Here are 8 effective tips to keep your tomatoes fresh for a longer period:
Ripen Unripe Tomatoes at Room Temperature
If your tomatoes aren't ripe yet, let them sit at room temperature in a single layer, with the stem side facing down. Avoid direct sunlight to ensure they ripen evenly. Allow them to ripen fully until they become colourful and slightly soft to the touch.
Refrigerate Ripe Tomatoes
Once your tomatoes have reached full ripeness, store them in the refrigerator to slow down further ripening and to prevent spoilage. To maintain the best flavour, let them return to room temperature for about an hour before use, as cold storage can diminish taste and texture.
Place Paper Towels in Storage Containers
When keeping tomatoes in the refrigerator, place paper towels inside the container or drawer to absorb excess moisture. This helps prevent premature spoilage by keeping the tomatoes dry.
Store Tomatoes Stem-Side Down
To minimise spoilage, place tomatoes stem-side down. This position prevents moisture and air from entering through the stem scar, helping the tomatoes stay fresh longer.
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Avoid Plastic Bags
Do not store tomatoes in plastic bags as they can trap moisture, leading to quicker spoilage. Opt for breathable containers or leave them on a plate or in a basket. If a bag is necessary, use a perforated one to ensure proper air circulation.
Keep Tomatoes Away from Ethylene-Producing Fruits
Fruits like bananas, apples, and avocados emit ethylene gas, which speeds up ripening. Store tomatoes separately from these fruits to prevent them from ripening too fast.
Use Sealed Containers
For pre-cut or partially used tomatoes, store them in sealed containers to limit air exposure, which can cause them to dry out or spoil. Make sure the container is both clean and dry before placing the tomatoes inside.
Freeze Excess Tomatoes
If you have more tomatoes than you can use before they spoil, freezing is a great option. Blanch the tomatoes, peel off the skins, and then freeze them in airtight containers or freezer bags. This method is ideal for later use in sauces or soups, although the texture may change after thawing.
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These techniques will help you extend the freshness of your tomatoes and reduce waste effectively.
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