Tag: food preservation

How to Dry Parsley: Simple Methods for Preservation

Ricardo Davis

– Drying parsley at home preserves the flavor better than store-bought dried parsley.
– The key is to keep the drying temperatures low, around 95 degrees Fahrenheit, to preserve the oils and flavor.
– The preferred method for drying parsley is using a dehydrator, but there are other methods as well.
– One alternative method is to hang the parsley upside down in a dark, cool place with air movement, such as a garage, using a fan to circulate the air.
– Another alternative method involves laying the parsley in a single layer on a window screen or baking rack and placing it in a car windshield to dry with the heat of the day.
– The possibility of using an oven for drying is mentioned, but it depends on whether the oven can go low enough without burning the herbs or evaporating their oils.
– The step-by-step process includes choosing healthy leaves with a few inches of stem, washing and drying the parsley, and then proceeding with the chosen drying method. The article provides instructions on how to dry parsley. It suggests patting the leaves dry on a towel or letting them air dry if needed. The parsley should then be spread out on the trays of a dehydrator or tied in a bundle to hang for sun drying. The drying process can take a few hours with a good dehydrator or up to a week or longer depending on conditions. It is important for the leaves to be completely dry and brittle with no bending or flexibility.
– Dried herbs should be stored in an airtight container, with glass jars being recommended over plastic. The herbs should be stored away from light and heat, as heat can break down the oils in the herbs. Dried herbs can last at least a year without going bad, although they may lose their flavor over time.
– When cooking with dried herbs, it is important to use about half the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh herbs that a recipe calls for, as dried herbs have a concentrated flavor.
– Sauces or condiments that heavily rely on fresh herbs, like pesto or chimichurri sauces, may not turn out well with dried herbs. It is suggested to make these sauces with fresh herbs and freeze them for better results.
– The article also provides recipe ideas to use dried herbs, including a Sausage and Lentil Stew, Zucchini Lasagna Roll Ups, and Homemade pasta sauce.

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Freezing Cooked Chicken: Best Practices for Optimal Safety

Ricardo Davis

– It is suggested to freeze cooked chicken in a single bag for convenience and portion control.
– The recommended method for thawing cooked chicken is to place it (in the plastic freezer bag) in the refrigerator overnight.
– As per the USDA, frozen cooked chicken (as well as meat) can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
– It is advised to mark the use-by date on the bag using a freezer-proof marker.
– Raw chicken should be wrapped in heavy-duty aluminum foil or placed in ziplock plastic freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.
– Raw chicken can last indefinitely in the freezer if stored properly.
– USDA suggests using whole raw chicken within a year, and cut chicken within nine months.
– Thaw frozen raw chicken in the refrigerator by placing it in a rimmed container or bowl for at least 24 hours.
– Clean surfaces thoroughly with hot soapy water if raw chicken juices drip in the refrigerator.
– Use the cold-water method for same-day defrosting by placing frozen chicken in a leak-proof plastic bag submerged in cold water, replacing the water every 30 minutes.
– Be cautious when using the microwave method to defrost raw chicken as it may create hot spots and uneven thawing.
– Cooked chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days, after which it’s best to freeze it.
– Shredded chicken defrosts faster than whole pieces, but both can be frozen by placing them in zip-top plastic freezer bags and removing air before sealing.

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Can You Freeze Oranges? The Surprising Answer Revealed

Ricardo Davis

– Oranges are a source of fiber, vitamin C, and folate, and are low in calories and fat
– Oranges, along with bell peppers, cucumbers, ginger, pineapple, and strawberries, can be frozen
– Freezing oranges allows for year-round use in recipes
– Steps to freeze oranges can be followed to have oranges available at any time
– It is recommended to stock up and freeze oranges when they are in season or on sale.

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Can you freeze Alfredo sauce? Pro tips for preservation

Ricardo Davis

– Freezing alfredo sauce is possible, but it may change in texture and the water and fat may separate.
– The sauce may turn yellowish when frozen, but this is normal and not a sign of spoilage.
– It’s best to freeze the sauce on the same day it’s made to preserve flavor and quality.
– Allow the sauce to cool to room temperature before transferring it to a freezer-safe bag or container.
– Seal the bag, removing as much air as possible, and label and date it.
– The sauce should be used within 3 months for best results.
– It’s recommended to divide the sauce into servings for easier thawing and portion control.
– Properly label and date the containers to avoid confusion.
– Sauces with dairy may naturally split when frozen, so reheating it properly is important.
– Thaw the sauce in the refrigerator overnight and reheat using either the stove or microwave.
– Adding a little flour or cornstarch can help thicken the sauce if it becomes too thin.
– Leftover Alfredo sauce can be used in various ways, such as on fettuccine, as a pizza sauce, a dressing, a dip, in a casserole, or in a creamy soup.

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Discover the Amazing Benefits of an Air Fryer Dehydrator: From Healthy Snacks to Flavorful Meals!

Ricardo Davis

– Dehydrating food is a process of removing excess moisture from food to make it last longer without spoiling.
– Dehydrated food has a lower chance of bacterial growth or spoilage.
– Dehydrators and air fryers can be used to dehydrate food.
– Most air fryers have a built-in dehydrator setting.
– Dehydrators circulate slightly warmed air around food to remove moisture.
– Salt and spices draw out water content from food, allowing warm air to evaporate excess water.
– Air fryers have a heating element and fan to circulate hot air around food.
– High temperatures in air fryers act like hot oil for frying without added grease.
– Lower temperatures in air fryers gently bring out moisture from food without cooking it.
– The recommended temperature range for dehydration in air fryers is between 120-160°F.
– Air fryers can be used to dehydrate various foods including fruits, vegetables, and meats.
– Dehydrated foods retain their nutrients, antioxidants, and vitamins.
– Dehydrated foods can last 6 to 12 months without spoiling and without the use of preservatives.
– Vacuum sealing dehydrated foods can extend their shelf life up to 4 years.
– Freeze drying is a technique that removes up to 90% of moisture from foods and allows them to last longer than traditional dehydration.
– Freeze Dried foods can last up to 10 or 15 years if vacuum sealed after dehydrating
– Air fryers are much more affordable, ranging from $90 to $150
– Dehydrated foods can be rehydrated by soaking them in water or milk for 10-20 minutes
– Thin slices or small chunks are recommended for dehydrating fruits, vegetables, and meats
– Seasoning food before dehydrating is advised
– Proper spacing in the air fryer basket is important to ensure even dehydration.
– The article provides tips for properly dehydrating snacks using an air fryer.
– Air fryers are versatile kitchen appliances that can be used for dehydration
– Air fryers can be used for various cooking methods including air frying, baking, roasting, broiling, and reheating food
– Dehydrating food in an air fryer eliminates the need for another appliance
– The “dehydrate” button on an air fryer is used to circulate warm air and remove moisture from the food
– Air fryers and dehydrators both use heat to cook, but they use it in different ways
– An air fryer is a kitchen appliance that uses hot air to cook food at high temperatures in a short amount of time.
– Dehydrators are similar to air fryers in that they also use air, but they use lower temperatures to remove moisture from food and dry it out.
– In an air fryer, you can dehydrate fruits such as bananas, strawberries, apricots, mangoes, apples, pears, and peaches.
– Dehydrating vegetables in an air fryer is also possible, with options like tomatoes, zucchini, kale, carrots, peppers, mushrooms, beets, corn, peas, and broccoli.
– Meat can also be dehydrated in an air fryer, making homemade jerky.
– Dehydrated meat is recommended as a protein-packed snack and a convenient option for camping trips since it does not need to be refrigerated.
– It is important to ensure that the meat reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F for safe consumption.
– The time required for dehydration varies depending on the food being used, with foods containing more moisture taking longer.

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Storing Strawberries in Mason Jars: Tips for Preservation

Ricardo Davis

– This article provides a step-by-step guide on storing strawberries in mason jars in the fridge so they last weeks.
– The author mentions trying different methods of storing fresh berries and states that storing strawberries in mason jars is the most effective.
– The article lists the equipment needed to store strawberries in mason jars, including a metal lid, airtight jar, and a kitchen towel or clean paper towel.
– The article advises washing strawberries properly by filling a clean sink halfway with cold tap water and adding vinegar or produce wash to the water.
– The strawberries should be swished in the vinegar solution or sprayed with produce spray while in the water.
– The strawberries should be soaked in the vinegar bath for at least 5 minutes and then checked for soft spots or mold.
– Any bad berries should be removed and either eaten or composted.
– After 5 minutes, the strawberries should be swished again to remove any dirt or debris.
– The strawberries should be dried on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels in a single layer before cutting.
– Washing strawberries can remove up to 95% pesticide residue, but buying organic strawberries or growing your own is recommended for complete pesticide-free strawberries.
– Strawberries can be stored as whole berries, cut in half, or sliced in glass containers.
– Storing whole strawberries without cutting them in a glass mason jar can further extend their shelf life.
– A 64oz mason jar is recommended for storing strawberries.
– Properly stored strawberries in mason jars can last up to 2 weeks in the fridge.
– Factors that may reduce storage life include purchasing old strawberries, presence of mold spores, winter-season strawberries, storing wet strawberries, keeping strawberries at room temperature for too long, and a too warm fridge.
– Airtight containers, including plastic containers with tight-fitting lids, can be used if mason jars are not available.
– It is recommended to wash the strawberries in a large bowl with a solution of ¼ cup distilled white vinegar (5% acidity) and 10 cups of cool water.
– The strawberries should be soaked in the solution for exactly 2 minutes to avoid fermentation.
– After soaking, the strawberries should be rinsed off in a colander and dried on a clean towel.
– It is advised to use fresh water every time the produce is washed.
– The strawberries should be checked periodically for dryness and rotated if needed on the towel.
– Once completely dry, the strawberries can be placed in a gallon-size glass jar lined with a piece of paper towel or a clean kitchen cloth to prevent staining.
– The glass jar filled with strawberries can be stored in the fridge.
– The strawberries can remain fresh for up to three weeks when stored in this manner.

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Can You Freeze Potato Salad? Tips and Tricks

Ricardo Davis

– Potato salad can be frozen, but it may not have the same texture when thawed.
– Leftover potato salad should be stored in the refrigerator and can last for three to four days.
– If potato salad has been held at room temperature for two hours, it should be thrown away instead of being returned to the refrigerator.
– Potato salad made with vinegar or without mayonnaise can last slightly longer than those made with mayo or hard-boiled eggs.
– Mayonnaise and dairy-based ingredients don’t freeze well, so the texture and taste of potato salad may be affected after freezing.
– Freezing can cause the potatoes to become soggy and turn gray.
– It is recommended to find creative ways to use up leftover potato salad instead of freezing it.
– If freezing potato salad, place it in a freezer-safe bag, press it into a single layer, squeeze out air, and freeze it flat.
– To freeze store-bought potato salad, remove it from the original container and place it in a freezer-safe bag.
– Freezing potato salad in a square container may lead to a deteriorated texture.
– These ingredients do not freeze well and can result in a strange texture when thawed.
– If potato salad with mayonnaise is frozen, it is recommended to serve it warm.
– The best way to thaw frozen potato salad is in the refrigerator overnight.
– If time is short, the freezer bag can be placed in cold water, with the water being changed every 30 minutes until the salad is thawed.
– A hole in the bag may cause the potato salad to become waterlogged, so an airtight bag is preferred.
– According to the USDA, potato salad should last in the refrigerator for three to four days.
– Frozen potato salad will have a different texture and may look and taste weird when thawed.
– Freezing potato salad can last about three to six months before the quality starts to decline.
– Thawing frozen potato salad is best done in the refrigerator overnight, but if time is limited, the freezer bag can be placed in cold water, with the water changed every 30 minutes until the salad is thawed.

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How long do bagels last and the best storage tips for freshness!

Ricardo Davis

How long do bagels last and how to store them:

– Bagels can go stale in a day if left out, but can stay fresh for about five days if stored in a sealed plastic bag.
– Freezing bagels can extend their lifespan for several months without much loss in flavor and texture.
– Placing bagels in a paper bag at room temperature can keep them fresh overnight, but they won’t last much longer than a day.
– For longer storage, place bagels in a plastic bag and expel as much air as possible. Store them at room temperature if eaten within a few days, otherwise freeze them.
– Defrost bagels by slicing them before freezing and toasting them in a toaster oven. Bagels should not be refrozen once defrosted.
– Bagels can last for 2-3 days at room temperature in an airtight container.
– Store-bought bagels can last for 3-5 days at room temperature, 5-7 days in the fridge, and 3 months in the freezer.
– Freshly made bagels at home last for 2 days at room temperature, 4-5 days in the fridge, and 3 months in the freezer.
– Bagels that are frozen from the store can last for 3 months or longer without a decline in quality.
– Storing bagels in the fridge may cause them to dry out more quickly. Bagels can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for 5-7 days.
– Storing bagels in the fridge extends their shelf-life but may affect texture and flavor.
– Keeping bagels in the original paper bag or in an airtight container at room temperature is the best way to keep them fresh overnight.
– Bagels and bread should be stored in a cold, dry place with no direct sunlight or heat.
– Bagels can be frozen for up to 3 months by slicing them in half, wrapping each half in cling film or aluminum foil, and placing them in a labeled ziplock bag.
– The “expiry date” of bagels is debatable. Bagels do not technically expire due to their low moisture content and lack of fat.
– Bagels are best when eaten within a few days of baking.
– Bagels will begin to harden after a few days and the quality decreases quickly.
– Most bagels grow stale after 3 to 4 days of storage, and most people discard them at this point.
– Bagels can be revived by toasting them in a toaster oven or using a microwave-to-bagel trick.
– Bagels without preservatives may get moldy within a week or two.
– Mold growth, black spots, and an off smell indicate that bagels have gone bad and should not be consumed.
– Storing bagels in the fridge will make them last for up to a week.

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The Science Behind Freeze Drying for Candy: Preserving Sweet Treats with Precision

Ricardo Davis

List of pertinent information related to freeze dryer for candy:

1. Freeze-drying candy at home can be done using a freezer or dry ice.
2. For freeze-drying candy in a freezer, place it on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and freeze for 2-3 weeks.
3. Limit opening and moving the freezer during the freeze-drying process.
4. Store the fully frozen candy in freezer bags in a cool, dry place and allow it to come to room temperature before consuming.
5. Using dry ice to freeze-dry candy involves placing it in freezer bags and then placing the bags in a cooler with dry ice. Let it sit for at least 24 hours on a day with low humidity.
6. Transfer the freeze-dried candy to new clean bags and store in a cool, dry place.
7. If the candy turns black during freeze-drying, continue freezing for a few more hours until the color returns.
8. There is a freeze-dried candy FAQ page and a freeze-dried candy store where readers can learn more about freeze-drying candy and purchase freeze-dried candy products.
9. Freeze-drying preserves the flavor and nutrition of ingredients and creates a new texture experience.
10. Freeze-dried food is preferred for space travel due to its lightweight and long shelf life without sacrificing flavor or nutrients.
11. Typically, freeze-dried food lasts at least five years, with some products lasting up to 25 years.
12. Oily candies like chocolate chips cannot be freeze-dried, but most other candies can.
13. Milk duds and freeze-dried ice cream are recommended treats for freeze-drying.
14. A freeze-drying machine is the easiest and most effective method, but dry ice can also be used at home.
15. The article provides instructions on how to make freeze-dried candy at home using dry ice.
16. Making freeze-dried candy at home allows for experimentation with different types of candies.
17. Readers have the option to browse and order freeze-dried candy from a selection provided.

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