How long can fresh peppers be stored in the refrigerator for freezing

Fresh Sichuan peppercorns can generally be stored in the refrigerator for 3-6 months, but the actual storage time is affected by factors such as freshness, pre-treatment method, sealing, freezing temperature, and thawing frequency.

1. Freshness of Sichuan Pepper

Freshly picked fresh Sichuan pepper has sufficient moisture and high volatile oil content, which can preserve its flavor well after freezing. If the storage time after picking is too long or wilting has occurred, the freezing storage time will be shortened. It is recommended to choose fresh Sichuan peppercorns with a green color and plump peppercorns for freezing.

2. Pre treatment method

Thoroughly drying the water after cleaning can reduce ice crystal formation and extend storage life. Whole branch freezing is more conducive to maintaining shape than bulk freezing, but it is inconvenient to use. Some people will blanch before freezing, although the color is greener, the flavor substances are easily lost.

3. Sealing

Using vacuum sealed bags or double-layer fresh-keeping bags to expel air can avoid frostbite and odor contamination. Sichuan peppercorns packaged in ordinary plastic bags are easily affected by refrigerator odors, and repeated opening and use of the bags can accelerate quality deterioration. Suggest dividing into small portions and freezing.

4. Freezing temperature

Low temperatures below minus 18 degrees Celsius can better inhibit enzyme activity. Frequent opening and closing of household refrigerators can cause temperature fluctuations, leading to repeated frosting on the surface of Sichuan peppercorns. The constant temperature environment of an independent freezer is more conducive to long-term storage.

5. Thawing frequency

Repeated thawing can damage cell structure, leading to aroma evaporation and color darkening. Take the required amount directly when needed to avoid thawing the entire bag. After being frozen for more than half a year, the numbness and aroma will significantly weaken.

Frozen Sichuan peppercorns do not need to be thawed before use, they can be directly added to hot oil for explosion or stewed. During storage, pay attention to checking for mold or odor. If the color turns black or the aroma disappears, stop eating. To maintain the best flavor, it is recommended to use it within 3 months. Daily cooking can be mixed with dried Sichuan peppercorns, and a ratio of 1:2 between dry and fresh Sichuan peppercorns can balance aroma and numbing taste. Long term storage of Sichuan peppercorns is suitable for making Sichuan peppercorns oil or grinding them into powder, and sealing flavor substances with oil.