The Homestead Way of Life

A REALLY Low Tech Preservation Method

09:59, 2006-Apr-29 .. 1 comments .. Link

I posted this on the "Front Porch" a few weeks ago, but thought I would relist it here in case anyone didn't see it. It really is a great little bit of information to know (if you don't already!).

A Really Low Tech Preservation Method

When we think of preserving foods, the methods of canning, freezing or drying are usually the first things that pop into our minds. However, sometimes preserving food can mean simply keeping our garden produce fresh for the longest possible amount of time. One of my favorite tools for doing this is the humble paper towel.

Paper towels can be used to extend the life of freshly harvested herbs and vegetables. Whenever I pick a bunch of cilantro or parsley, I wrap it in a paper towel before placing it inside a Ziploc bag and putting it in the fridge. What this does is wick away moisture from the herbs (the moral enemy of any fresh produce), thereby prolonging that "just picked" taste and texture. This works well with just about any herb, green onions and chives.

But, don't stop with herbs! This method works great with other garden produce as well. After I have washed, drained and thoroughly dried my lettuce leaves, I put them in a Ziploc bag with one paper towel on the bottom of the bag and one paper towel on top. Squeezing as much air as you can out of the bag also helps. Try sticking a paper towel in the bag with broccoli, carrots, green beans, spinach - almost any veggie that you want to keep crispy and fresh in the fridge. Check the vegetables every couple of days and if the paper towel has gotten soggy, replace it.

I bet you'll be surprised at how much longer your fresh produce will last using this very simple technique.

About Me

The word "homestead" literally means to be steadfast at home. My joy would be to encourage other Christian women to rejoice in the home-centered life, instead of buying into the cultural norm of the mother who is constantly on the go. I publish the New Harvest Homestead newsletter for those who love, growing and preserving food, crafting, homekeeping, backyard flocks, Titus 2 fellowship and all other aspects of the homestead life. Email me at newharvest@gotsky.com to get a free introductory issue!

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