With all the advantages of frozen food, we must remember to follow the rules regarding their storage and defrosting. Learn how to defrost your food so it doesn't spoil and lose its nutritional value.
If you want to keep thefrozen foodyou just bought, do not let it thaw during transport from the store. It should not be left outside the refrigerator for more than an hour. When this time is extended, there is a risk thatwill be thawedand you will have to use it immediately.
Storage of frozen food should not exceed the freezing temperature (specified on the product packaging). It is about inhibiting the growth of microorganisms and any biochemical and chemical changes. Therefore, set the temperature in the freezer to -18oC or lower.
Unlike the refrigerator, food stored in thefreezershould be packed tightly for the appliance to work efficiently and effectively.
To prevent damage to the stored products, it is best to store them in plastic containers or bags adapted to low temperatures.
Correct defrosting - how to defrost?
Ideally just before consumption and as soon as possible to prevent the accumulation of microorganisms. Therefore, cook the fruits and vegetables intended for further heat treatment immediately after taking them out of the freezer.
However, if they are not intended for cooking, it is better to defrost them in the refrigerator than at room temperature. This reduces the loss of vitamin C and slows down the growth of bacteria and mold.
Soft fruit (e.g. strawberries), intended to be eaten raw, rinse with cool water and sprinkle with sugar to isolate from the air. Keep them in the refrigerator, on the lowest shelf, until they are completely defrosted.
If you want to add fruit to jelly, use less water to prepare it, and after cooling it, pour the jelly over the frozen fruit.
Vegetables to be cooked put immediately in hot water and cook, covered, as short as possible. You can also steam them. This way you will not lose the vitamins and nutritional value of the products.
Leave vegetables for a salad for a few hours in the bottom of the refrigerator. In this waythey will defrost themselves gently. Then season them to taste.