How to keep water spinach fresh and not rotten

The key to keeping water spinach fresh and not rotten is to control the moisture and temperature. Methods such as refrigeration, soaking the roots, and wrapping can be used to extend the shelf life.

1. Refrigerate and store

Wash the water spinach, drain the water, wrap the stem with kitchen paper to absorb excess moisture, put it in a fresh-keeping bag, and leave a vent. The temperature in the refrigerator compartment should be maintained at around 4 degrees Celsius, and it can be stored for about 3 days. Be careful not to store it together with fruits that release ethylene, such as apples and bananas, to avoid accelerating decay.

2. Water Nourishing Method

Trim the roots of water spinach by 1 centimeter, place them upright in a container filled with clean water, and submerge the roots by 2 centimeters. Change the water and prune the roots every day, and place them in a cool and ventilated place. This method can maintain freshness for 2-4 days. In summer, wet gauze can be used to reduce water loss.

3. Vacuum sealing

Use a food grade vacuum bag to remove air and seal, blocking oxygen contact to slow down oxidation. If there is no professional equipment, you can put the water spinach into a sealed bag and immerse it in water. Use water pressure to discharge the air inside the bag and then seal it. Vacuum refrigeration can preserve freshness for 5-7 days, but the leaves may deform due to vacuum pressure.

4. Freezing treatment

Blanch for 30 seconds, then cool with ice water, fully drain and pack for freezing. Freezing can cause changes in cell structure, resulting in a softer texture, making it suitable for subsequent stewing and consumption. When frozen, try to store it flat to avoid clumping, and the shelf life can reach up to one month, but some nutrients such as vitamin C may be lost.

5. Newspaper wrapping

Wrap the whole hollow cabbage with slightly damp newspaper, and wrap it in a plastic bag with holes for ventilation. Newspapers can regulate humidity to prevent condensation and block some light. Store in a cool place or in a refrigerator vegetable and fruit box. Check and replace damp newspapers every 12 hours to extend freshness by 2-3 days.

When storing water spinach in daily life, it is necessary to avoid squeezing and damaging the leaves. When purchasing, choose fresh dishes with straight stems and no yellow spots. For short-term storage, priority should be given to water preservation or refrigeration. For large-scale storage, blanching and freezing can be used. Regardless of the method, rotten leaves and mature stems should be removed before storage, and clean utensils should be used during handling to avoid cross contamination. Rinse the crevices with running water before cooking, and add a small amount of salt during soaking to help remove residual impurities.