Introduction
Refrigeration helps to preserve a great many foods, but some of the ingredients will actually lose their flavour, texture, or quality when stored in the cold. Knowing which of your ingredients are best left on the counter or in the pantry will go a long way to reducing food waste and keeping your ingredients at their best. Here are 10 foods you should avoid refrigerating under normal circumstances.
1. Tomatoes
Tomatoes can lose their flavour and go mealy in the fridge. Store ripe tomatoes at room temperature and away from direct light.
2. Potatoes
Cold temperatures will turn potato starch into sugar (affecting both flavour and cookability). Store your potatoes in a cool, dark, dry and well-ventilated area.
3. Onions
Whole onions will absorb moisture in the fridge and can end up quite soft or even develop mould. They should be stored in a dry, well-ventilated pantry, away from the potatoes.
4. Garlic
Refrigerated garlic will either sprout or become rubbery. Whole garlic bulbs should be stored in a cool, dry place with good air circulation.
5. Bread
Refrigeration speeds up the staling of bread by accelerating the starch changes. For short-term use store the bread in a sealed container at room temperature. For longer storage freeze the bread.
6. Bananas
Cold temperatures will slow ripening and can cause the peel to go dark. Keep unripe bananas at room temperature until they are to your required ripeness.
7. Honey
Honey will crystallise more rapidly in cold conditions. Store it tightly sealed at room temperature in a dry place.
8. Coffee
Coffee will absorb moisture and take in the odours of things nearby, so it's important to keep it in an airtight container and store it in a cool, dark cupboard.
9. Avocados
Unripe avocados may take longer to ripen in the fridge. Leave them on the counter until they're soft. If you need to delay the ripening process any further, then refrigerate the ripe ones.
10. Basil
Cold air will damage basil leaves (dark spots and wilting). Keep the fresh basil stems in a glass of water at room temperature.
Conclusion
Proper food storage will help to maintain flavour, texture, and quality and will also reduce waste. The requirements for storage will vary depending on ripeness, climate and freshness. Cut produce should always be refrigerated and food safety advice should be followed where appropriate.
Responses (2)
Sign in to share your thoughts.
Sign in