It turns out that storing chilies in the refrigerator like this makes them rot quickly, so avoid it from now on.

foto: Pixabay

It turns out that storing chilies in the refrigerator does not always make them last longer. If you store them incorrectly, it can actually speed up the rotting process.

Brilio.net - Chili is one of the kitchen ingredients that is almost always available at home. Whether for cooking chili sauce, stir-fries, or simply adding a spicy flavor, chili is always a savior. But the problem that often arises: just bought a few days ago, the chili has started to wrinkle, become soft, or even rotten, even though it has been stored in the refrigerator.

It turns out that storing chilies in the refrigerator does not always make them last longer. If you store them incorrectly, it can actually speed up the rotting process. High humidity and tightly closed storage can trigger mold and cause chilies to spoil quickly. Fortunately, there are some simple and effective tricks to keep chilies fresh longer, even up to two weeks without changing texture.

Before discussing the solution, it is important to know first what common mistakes cause chilies to rot quickly even though they have been refrigerated:

- Put it in directly without cleaning: Residual soil, water, or mold can spread during storage.
- Using tight plastic without ventilation: This triggers high humidity which is the main cause of rot.
- Wash chilies before storing: Water that sticks to them can accelerate rotting if not dried properly.

Here are some natural and proven effective tricks for storing chilies so they last longer, even without having to store them frozen:

1. Store in a Glass Jar and Cover with Tissue

The tissue serves to absorb excess moisture from the chilies, thereby preventing premature rotting.

Material:
- Fresh chilies (red/green/bird's eye)
- Glass jar or airtight plastic container
- Kitchen tissue

How to make:
1. Dry the chilies with a cloth or tissue if there is any remaining water.
2. Line the bottom of the jar with kitchen paper.
3. Add the chilies, then cover the top again with tissue.
4. Close the jar tightly and store in the vegetable section of the refrigerator.

With this method, chilies can last 10-14 days, remaining fresh and not wrinkled.

2. Aired in an Open Basket

photo: Pixabay/CHU VIN

This method is suitable if you live in an area that is not too humid. Open storage can extend the life of the chilies without making them soft.

How to save:
- Store chilies in a wicker basket or container with holes.
- Place in an area of the kitchen that is not exposed to direct sunlight.
- Stir the chilies every 1-2 days so that no part remains damp for too long.

This method keeps the chilies naturally dry and can last up to 7 days without refrigeration.

3. Wrap with paper or newspaper

Paper can absorb moisture and prevent the chilies from coming into direct contact with each other.

How to save:
- Take several sheets of clean newspaper/used paper.
- Wrap the chilies loosely, not too tightly.
- Store in the bottom refrigerator drawer (vegetables only).

This makes the chili last about 810 days in fairly fresh condition.

- Separate rotten or damaged chilies. One rotten chili can spread to others quickly.
- Do not wash before storing. It is better to wash when you are going to use it.
- Use a clear container. So that it is easy to check the condition of the chili without having to open the container.

If you want to store chilies for a longer period (more than 2 weeks), you can freeze them. But be aware that the texture will change when thawed, although the spiciness remains strong.

How to freeze chilies:
1. Wash and dry the chilies until completely dry.
2. Cut into pieces as needed or store whole.
3. Put it in a ziplock bag and remove as much air as possible.
4. Store in the freezer.

Frozen chilies can last up to 3 months.

1. Can all types of chilies be stored in the refrigerator?
Yes, but cayenne pepper tends to last longer than large red pepper. Use a storage method that suits the type.

2. The chilies are soft, can they still be used?
As long as it is not moldy or smelly, soft chilies can still be used for chili sauce or soup dishes.

3. Can chilies be dried as an alternative storage?
Yes. Chilies can be dried in the sun or oven, then stored in a dry jar for long-term stock.

4. Why do chilies rot quickly even though they've just been bought?
Maybe the chilies you bought were too ripe or the previous storage conditions were not good (damp or too long at room temperature).

5. What are the signs that chilies are no longer fit for consumption?
The appearance of white mold, watery, sour aroma, or changing color to blackish is a sign that the chili is rotten and should be thrown away.

(brl/tin)