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Chili is a widely used spice in household cooking, yet many individuals purchase it without knowing the proper methods for preservation, leading to spoilage or rot. To maintain the freshness of chili and ensure it remains juicy as if just harvested, consider the following preservation tips. Various types of chili exist, including chili pepper, bell pepper, green chili, and horn chili, which many homemakers seek to preserve effectively. Storing chili in the refrigerator can lead to rapid spoilage or rot, diminishing its flavor when incorporated into dishes, and rendering rotten chili unusable.

To keep chili peppers fresh, follow this method:

Selecting chili peppers: Opt for fresh chili peppers that exhibit vibrant colors, smooth textures, and firmness. Choose green and thick varieties. When handled, they should feel firm and juicy, avoiding any that are flattened or dented, as these indicate they are not freshly picked.

Steps for preserving fresh chili using cooking oil and plastic bottles:

Step 1: Dry the chili’s outer skin: After purchasing, place the chili in a basket, rack, or tray to prevent moisture accumulation on the skin, as wet conditions can lead to rapid rot. Discard any wilted or bruised peppers.

Step 2: Trim the stem: Remove any wilted chili and use scissors to shorten the stem if it is excessively long. Retain only a small portion of the stem near the tip of the fruit. Long stems can cause the peppers to rub against one another, leading to scratches and quicker spoilage. However, avoid removing the entire stem, as this can expose the tip to spoilage and bacterial entry.
Step 3: Place the chili peppers in a plastic container: Pour sufficient cooking oil to completely cover the chili peppers. Next, transfer the chili peppers into clean, used plastic bottles, such as those previously containing mineral water or filtered water, ensuring they have been washed and dried. Secure the lid tightly and store these bottles in the refrigerator; the chili will remain fresh for up to six months without losing moisture, spoiling, or rotting. The plastic bottle effectively prevents evaporation, while the layer of cooking oil forms a protective barrier that retains the moisture within the chili pulp. You can keep it in the refrigerator for one to two months without concerns of spoilage or decay.

Preserving chili in the refrigerator

Step 1: Select the chili: Discard any rotten chili to prevent them from affecting the remaining peppers.

Step 2: Detach the chili stems: Remove the stems to optimize storage space. When using the freezing method, it is advisable to remove the stems as well. Afterward, wash the chili thoroughly and allow it to drain.

Step 3: Store the chili in a specialized plastic zip bag: Place the chili in a designated food storage plastic bag or container, then refrigerate. This method ensures that the chili remains firm throughout the year without becoming mushy. When removed from the freezer, the chili will be frozen solid. You can use a knife or scissors to cut it and directly add it to sauces or dishes, preventing it from becoming soft and watery.

If the chili is left in the refrigerator without proper storage, it may rot due to excess moisture or become dry by absorbing water. When incorporated into sauces or dishes, the chili will impart a distinct aroma and flavor that differs from that of fresh chili.