How to properly store fresh basil in the refrigerator

The aromatic spice basil is appreciated and loved by chefs all over the world. Greens are rich in essential oils, vitamins, tannins and ascorbic acid. Due to the specific aroma, taste and content of useful substances, spices are not suitable for the usual methods of storing herbs. The article will tell you how to store basil in the refrigerator correctly.

Can basil be stored in the refrigerator?

Basil is a universal seasoning. It is added to salads, soups, hot dishes, served fresh and used as decoration. Basil leaves are used in making sauces for meat and fish, added to gravies, and combined with vegetable oils. When fresh, the spice reveals the taste of cheeses, eggplants and nuts.

Green basil is valued in cooking and violet. The latter is often served fresh. The leaves of the plant are aromatic and have a unique, tart taste. Green basil less aromatic, has a sweetish taste. It is added to soups, sauces, cocktails and hot drinks.

Basil is perfectly stored in the refrigerator not only fresh, but also frozen.

Storing in the refrigerator is justified only if the cut greens will be used in the near future. If the greens must wait several days or weeks for their time, it is recommended to purchase basil in a pot. This way, the spice will retain its beneficial properties longer and will delight you with its appearance for a long time.To store greens for the winter, it is advisable to use the freezer compartment.

Nutrition experts say that the greatest amount of nutrients is found in fresh spices. After cutting, the plant loses some of its beneficial properties, but the greatest loss occurs when frozen. Therefore, supporters of a healthy diet advise against this storage method.

Greens prepared using the “shock freezing” method will retain their beneficial properties. But this is impossible at home.

How to prepare basil for storage

The plant does not tolerate sudden temperature changes and does not like direct sunlight. Basil leaves are very tender; after being cut, they quickly begin to darken and lose their unique aroma.

When collecting basil on your site, follow these recommendations:

• Harvest in dry, sunny weather;
• cut stems at least 15 cm long;
• the stems on a flowering basil bush are not suitable for assembly and storage;
• The frequency of harvesting a plant is once every 1.5 months - this way the plant will grow and develop better.

In stores, basil is sold in bunches, pots and frozen.

A potted plant will do well in a dark place, away from sunlight. To increase shelf life, such a pot is stored in the refrigerator, watering periodically.

Cut basil on store shelves is presented in bunches or packages. It is worth opting for plants without visible damage, clean, with the typical aroma of basil.

Actions after purchase:

1. Take apart the bunch and check the greens. Poor quality leaves are thrown away. Only fresh greens are stored well, without wilted leaves, signs of rot or damage.
2. After disassembling the bunch, inspect the stems.Remove damaged ones.
3. Rinse the plant under running water.
4. When it drains, dry the leaves on a paper or waffle towel. Raw stems cannot be stored. Basil will quickly wither, rot and become unsuitable for food.

If leaves are prepared for long-term storage, then it is advisable to use a freezer.

How to freeze:

1. Rinse the plant.
2. Place in a colander and allow excess liquid to drain.
3. Dry on a paper or waffle towel.
4. Chop dry leaves.
5. Place in an even, thin layer in a thick plastic bag intended for freezing.
6. Place in the freezer.

The method for preparing spices for drinks is the same as for freezing. The difference is that the plant is placed in an ice container, filled with cold water and frozen.

In what container should you store basil in the refrigerator?

To store fresh leaves, select a clean, dry container with holes (for sufficient air exchange). If the container is tightly closed, the plant will quickly become unusable.

The main task of packaging for storage - keep the plant fresh and ready to eat for as long as possible.

Suitable for storage:

• perforated plastic bag;
• container with holes in the lid;
• a special bag made of natural materials for storing vegetables, fruits and herbs;
• thick paper for storage;
• glass of water;
• package with a mark "for freezing".

Shelf life

The shelf life of cut greens in the refrigerator is a week. The plant is perfectly stored in the compartment for vegetables and fruits in paper or in a perforated bag. You can use regular cling film, remembering to make holes with a toothpick. Greens can be stored in the freezer for 1 year.

How to keep basil fresh in the refrigerator for as long as possible

Unusual ways to store spicy herbs will help maximize their shelf life:

1. Fresh herbs are stored better if sprinkled with salt.
2. Fresh chopped basil is placed in ice trays and poured with olive oil, then frozen.
3. The greens are crushed using a blender into a homogeneous mass and frozen in an ice container.
4. Fresh herbs are placed in a glass jar with an airtight lid, then poured with olive oil and placed in the refrigerator.
5. Chefs recommend storing the plant in the form "basil oil". The plant is cut, generously sprinkled with coarse sea salt and filled with any vegetable oil. This dressing will perfectly complement salads and Italian dishes.
6. Fresh basil is pickled in vinegar or wine.

Conclusion

Basil is easy to store if you follow all the nuances. Frozen spices will not take up much space in the freezer and will be stored for about a year. It will stay fresh for a week in the compartment for vegetables and fruits. Only dry, undamaged leaves and clean containers with holes are suitable for storage.