foto: freepik.com
Brilio.net - Chayote is often processed into various dishes, from lodeh vegetables, stir-fries, to fresh vegetables. In addition to its delicious taste, chayote is rich in nutrients such as fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, which make it not only delicious but also healthy. Because of these advantages, chayote is a favorite choice for many families to serve in their daily menu.
Despite its many benefits, chayote has its own challenges in terms of storage. This vegetable is quite easy to rot if not stored properly. In humid environmental conditions or inappropriate temperatures, chayote can quickly wilt and lose its freshness. This condition is usually indicated by the texture of the pumpkin starting to become soft and blackish due to rot.
To overcome this problem, it is necessary to apply some proper storage techniques . One technique that is often used by many people is to wrap the chayote in plastic. There are also those who choose to put it in a closed container that has been lined with tissue. A number of these methods are considered to be able to prevent chayote from becoming damp and rotting easily.
photo: Instagram/@tinissn_
But besides the technique, there is another trick that can be done when storing chayote . This trick was once shared by Instagram user @tinissn_. Reported by BrilioFood on Sunday (8/9), she admitted to only putting the chayote in a container. However, this container must be filled with water so that the pumpkin is ready to stay fresh.
photo: Instagram/@tinissn_
To be more precise, prepare a large container first. After that, put the chayote in the container and fill it with water until the chayote is completely submerged. If so, close the container and store the chayote in the lower refrigerator (chiller). This will keep the chayote fresh and not easily rotten for up to 2 weeks.
photo: Instagram/@tinissn_
Basically, storing chayote in a closed container filled with water can help maintain moisture and prevent the vegetable from wilting quickly because of its high water content. When chayote is stored in water, its natural moisture can be maintained, thus preventing it from drying out and wilting.
Maintaining moisture helps maintain the crunchy texture and freshness of chayote. In addition, water acts as a barrier that protects chayote from exposure to air. Oxidation caused by air can accelerate the process of rotting and discoloration of vegetables. By soaking chayote in water, contact with air is reduced, so oxidation can be minimized.
On the other hand, storing chayote by soaking and placing it in the refrigerator can help maintain a consistent and cool temperature. The cold temperature in the refrigerator slows the growth of microorganisms that cause decay, while the water helps distribute the cold temperature evenly around the chayote. As a result, the chayote is not easily rotten.
(brl/mal)
