Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Nov 12: Vegetables are most delicious when they are fresh, crisp and full of flavour, but keeping them that way for long can be difficult. Excess moisture or dryness often causes them to spoil quickly. To overcome this, a Japanese technique of storing vegetables is becoming increasingly popular. This method helps retain freshness, taste, aroma and nutrients without using any plastic packaging.

Japanese people store vegetables in a systematic and eco-friendly manner. They wrap them in cotton cloth or paper towels to prevent moisture loss and maintain crispness. This simple yet effective method is easy to follow and helps in keeping vegetables fresh for several days.

The process begins with proper preparation. The refrigerator should be clean before storing vegetables. Overripe or spoiling vegetables should be used first, as they can emit gases that affect others. After sorting, remove rubber bands, strings and damaged outer leaves to prevent moisture build-up. Wash the vegetables thoroughly to remove any soil and dry them well before storing. Excess humidity can make them rot faster, so vegetables should be stored in airy containers that allow air circulation instead of being piled on top of each other. Keeping leafy greens separate and retaining the stems helps reduce water loss and keeps them fresh.

To balance humidity, the Japanese wrap vegetables in clean cotton or muslin cloth. Greens can be wrapped in a slightly damp cloth to keep them from drying out, while mushrooms and berries should be wrapped dry. The wrapped vegetables are then stored in the fridge. It is important to avoid airtight plastic bags as they trap gases and lead to spoilage.

Not all vegetables are suited for refrigeration. Broccoli, cabbage, eggplant, asparagus, green beans, lettuce and berries stay fresh in the fridge. Onions, potatoes, garlic and tomatoes, however, should be kept outside in a cool, dry place away from sunlight, as the cold temperature can affect their texture and taste.

It is also necessary to check stored vegetables regularly. If there is any moisture on the wrapping, it should be replaced with a dry cloth immediately. Changing the cloth frequently helps prevent mould and decay.

By following this Japanese technique, vegetables can stay fresh for a longer period, reducing food wastage. The method is simple, effective and environmentally friendly, allowing households to enjoy fresh and healthy food every day.