Mastering Cherry Tomato Storage: Freshness for Weeks with Smart Refrigeration and Freezing Tips
How to Wash and Store Cherry Tomatoes: Optimal Refrigeration and Freezing Methods for Extended Freshness and Shelf Life
Cherry tomatoes are a favorite, especially for kids, and we often buy them in bulk. Proper storage is key to enjoying them fresh for a long time! This guide provides simple yet effective methods for washing, refrigerating, and freezing cherry tomatoes, along with tips on how to maximize their shelf life. Learn how to keep your cherry tomatoes perfectly fresh, ready to be enjoyed anytime.
Washing Ingredients- 1 tablespoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Mold often starts to grow on the stem end of cherry tomatoes and can spread to others. Therefore, it’s best to remove the stems right after purchasing. Fill a bowl with enough water to cover the tomatoes, then add baking soda and vinegar in a 1:1 ratio.
Step 2
I used 1 tablespoon of vinegar and 1 tablespoon of baking soda. Let the cherry tomatoes soak in this solution for about 5 minutes.
Step 3
Soaking fruits and vegetables in water for a short period is known to be effective in removing residual pesticides. However, prolonged soaking can lead to vitamin loss, so limiting the soak time to around 5 minutes is ideal.
Step 4
Now, place the cherry tomatoes in a colander and gently rub them under running water to rinse them thoroughly.
Step 5
After washing, place them in the colander to drain completely. They should feel squeaky clean when you touch them.
Step 6
When refrigerating cherry tomatoes, it’s crucial to meticulously pat them dry with paper towels. Any remaining moisture can cause them to become mushy or spoil quickly.
Step 7
Once dried, store the cherry tomatoes in airtight containers or resealable bags. Placing a paper towel at the bottom of the container can help absorb excess moisture, further preserving their freshness.
Step 8
*To maintain optimal freshness in the refrigerator, replace the paper towels daily, as moisture can still accumulate. This simple step will help them stay fresh for longer.
Step 9
For freezing, it’s best to peel the cherry tomatoes first. An easy way to peel them is to lightly blanch them. Before blanching, score the skin with a shallow ‘X’ cut at the bottom; this will make peeling much easier after blanching.
Step 10
Once the water is at a rolling boil, add the scored cherry tomatoes and blanch for about 10 seconds. Avoid blanching for too long, as they can become too soft.
Step 11
The skins of the blanched tomatoes will slip off easily. Storing them peeled and frozen can keep them fresh for up to a month. These blanched and frozen tomatoes are perfect for making smoothies or purees.
