Most people have a fast-paced lifestyle that doesn’t allow them to shop for groceries every day. This is why they buy more than they need at the moment, even though in many cases it means they will have to throw some of it away. Obviously, this is not a very smart decision, especially when it comes to finances.
Luckily, there is a simple solution for this problem. With the tips in this article, you will learn how to store garlic and onions so that they stay fresh for a much longer period of time.
To start with, check for signs that the groceries are starting to spoil. For instance, green sprouts on garlic or patches of mold on onions are clear signs that they are going bad. Sprouts also mean that the bulbs are ready to be planted, but most people are not planning to plant their groceries. So, let’s see how to extend the shelf life of groceries like these.
Here’s What You Will Need
- Brown paper bags;
- Ripe, firm onions and garlic, free of blemishes;
- Hole punch;
- Paper clips.
Directions
- Start by punching the bags. You can punch holes wherever you want, although it is better to focus on the upper part of the bag.
- After that, fold the bag a few times in any direction and punch rows of holes. It is best to leave about one inch of free space between them.
- Finally, load the bag with onions or garlic, fold the top over, fasten it with a paper clip, and label it.
- In this way, the bag will keep its contents fresh for a much longer period of time, because the holes provide better air circulation. Keep in mind that the bags should not be completely filled with produce. Store them as you usually would.
- If you want to get the best results, pay attention to the level of light, temperature, and humidity in the place where you keep these groceries.
Additional Tips
- Don’t keep the onions and garlic in the refrigerator. Use a dark and dry place for storage, like your basement or pantry. The reason why you should avoid the fridge is simple – the low temperature makes these veggies softer. In addition, when they are softer they release more smell, and the rest of the food stored in the refrigerator will absorb it.
- Avoid closed plastic bags. These bags accelerate sprouting because the veggies don’t have access to fresh air. Use a mesh bag or an open paper bag instead.
- Do not keep the garlic and onions together with potatoes, because the gases they produce speed up spoilage. So, don’t put these foods in the same bag or drawer.
Via The Yummy Life