Onions are a familiar ingredient in the kitchen of many Vietnamese families, used for stir-frying, cooking, and making spices for many dishes. However, many people often encounter the situation of onions sprouting quickly, becoming mushy or moldy after only a few days of buying them.
The main reason comes from improper storage methods, causing onions to become damp, stuffy or exposed to inappropriate light. If you know how to store them properly, onions can last much longer while still ensuring freshness and flavor.
Below are simple but extremely effective ways to preserve onions that housewives should not ignore.
1. Store in a dry, airy place
Onions need to be placed in a ventilated place, away from direct sunlight and especially not in a damp environment. Dry kitchen cabinets or hanging baskets are suitable choices to help onions not spoil quickly.
2. Do not put onions in sealed plastic bags
Many people have a habit of putting onions in nylon bags after buying them. However, this makes the onions hollow, easily watery and rot quickly. It is best to use mesh bags or leave each bulb separately for better air circulation.
3. Avoid storing with potatoes
Potatoes when placed with onions will create air and moisture that makes both spoil faster. Therefore, each type should be kept separately in different areas to prolong the shelf life.
4. Do not cut it in advance if not used immediately
Cut onions are very easily oxidized and lose their freshness. If cut, they should be wrapped tightly and stored in the refrigerator, but should only be used for a short time to ensure quality.
5. Hang onions in bunches in a ventilated place
A very effective folk remedy is to tie onions in bunches and hang them in a dry, ventilated place. This method helps onions "breat" naturally, limit mold and last significantly longer.
Just applying a few small tips in the way of preserving, onions can maintain their freshness longer, not sprout or spoil quickly, helping housewives save costs and always have ingredients ready for family meals.