A Simple Method to Save Beans

The preservation of green beans can be extended by methods such as refrigeration, freezing, sun drying, pickling, and vacuum sealing.

1. Refrigerate storage

Fresh beans should be washed, dried, and placed in a fresh-keeping bag. The bag should be tightly sealed with air and stored in the refrigerator compartment for 5-7 days. Be careful not to store with fruits that release a large amount of ethylene, and it is recommended to control the refrigeration temperature at around 4 ℃. If water droplets or soft rot are found on the surface of the beans, they should be removed immediately for treatment.

2. Freeze storage

Blanch the beans for 2 minutes, then drain them with supercooled water and pack them in sealed bags for 6 months. Blanching can destroy oxidase activity and maintain color. When packaging, use a single dose to avoid repeated thawing. Frozen beans can be directly used for stewing dishes, with a softer and more glutinous taste compared to fresh beans.

3. Sun drying treatment

Cut the beans into sections and boil them in boiling water for 1 minute. Spread them flat on a bamboo sieve and expose them to sunlight for 3-5 days until completely dehydrated. Dried beans should be sealed and moisture-proof for storage, and soaked in warm water for 2 hours before consumption to recover. This method is suitable for areas with sufficient sunlight, and the finished product can be stored for more than 12 months, but there is a significant loss of vitamin C.

4. Pickled and stored

Beans are layered with salt in a ratio of 10:1 and placed in jars. After 20 days of heavy stone fermentation, sour beans are made. The pickling process produces lactic acid bacteria to inhibit spoilage, and the finished product needs to be refrigerated and kept submerged in salt water. Pay attention to disinfecting the pickling container, and discard the entire jar if mold spots appear.

5. Vacuum sealing

After blanching, the beans are vacuum sealed and refrigerated for 15 days, and frozen for up to 8 months. The vacuum environment can effectively block oxidation and microbial growth, making it suitable for commercial bulk storage. For household use, a small vacuum sealing machine can be selected, and attention should be paid to checking whether the packaging leaks.

Different storage methods can affect the nutritional value and taste of green beans. It is recommended to choose the appropriate method according to the consumption plan. For short-term storage, priority should be given to refrigeration. For long-term storage, it is recommended to freeze or sun dry. Regardless of the method used, it is important to ensure that the beans are fresh and free from pests, and to pay attention to cleaning utensils during the processing. Before consumption, check for signs of spoilage. Pickled beans have a high salt content, and people with hypertension should control their intake. Alternating consumption with other vegetables can ensure dietary diversity.