Brilio.net - Banana leaves are one of the natural ingredients that have long been used in various culinary traditions, especially in tropical countries. In addition to functioning as a food wrapper, banana leaves also provide a distinctive aroma that enhances the taste of the dish. The use of banana leaves covers various types of cuisine, from traditional cakes to steamed or grilled side dishes.
The benefits of banana leaves are not limited to their function as natural wrapping. These leaves also have non-stick properties that make them ideal for cooking food without the need for additional oil. In addition, banana leaves contain polyphenols, antioxidant compounds that can transfer to food during cooking, adding health benefits to the dishes served.
Many people use banana leaves, making this item often stored in large quantities as stock. Unfortunately, banana leaves that are not stored properly tend to turn yellow and dry easily. In fact, yellowing and drying banana leaves make them difficult to use because of their stiff shape.
To extend the shelf life of banana leaves, you can imitate the trick shared by Instagram user @siskadp0809. Through one of the videos uploaded, she claimed to be able to extend the shelf life of banana leaves even if they are not frozen. Well, this method can keep banana leaves fresh and green for up to 3 weeks.
As reported by BrilioFood from Instagram @siskadp0809 on Monday (12/8), the method used is to store banana leaves in the refrigerator. More precisely, he put the banana leaves on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator. However, in order to last a long time, there are tools that must be prepared, namely paper or newspaper and ziplock plastic.
photo: Instagram/@siskadp0809
How to store it is also quite easy. You can roll the banana leaf first. After that, wrap it with paper or newspaper. Make sure the entire banana leaf is wrapped perfectly, okay.
photo: Instagram/@siskadp0809
Next, put the banana leaves in a ziplock plastic. After that, place it in the bottom of the refrigerator. Well, the paper or newspaper will absorb the moisture and water vapor that comes out of the banana leaves. On the other hand, the ziplock plastic will prevent the cold temperature of the refrigerator from coming into direct contact with the banana leaves. This will make the banana leaves last longer in storage, even without turning yellow and drying out for up to 2 weeks.
photo: Instagram/@siskadp0809
This upload on how to store banana leaves has been viewed more than 13 thousand times. Who would have thought, many other Instagram users claimed to have just learned the trick. On the other hand, there are also those who clean other suggestions on storing banana leaves.
"It's true that the first tip is to practice it if you want to make grilled rice," said Instagram @rumah.zra.
"Thanks for the tips, sis," said Instagram @dapoersolo_kennara.
"Thanks for the tips. I just found out," wrote the Instagram account @mikapratisha.
"So flexible but still green," commented the Instagram account @ade_rahmidiana.
"I roll it up neatly in plastic wrap and it will last for 2 months," said Instagram @desi_kitchen19.