How to Preserve Belle Peppers in the Fridge Longer and Prevent Spoilage
All vegetables, including peppers, have microscopic mold spores just waiting for a little time and moisture to grow. Mold spores can be carried for great distances by even the gentlest breezes. They settle upon just any type of food grown outside. When you rinse your peppers and put them in the fridge, you're giving them all the moisture they need for spores to grow. Here's how to slow down the process and keep your peppers dry while in storage.
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Don't Rinse with Water. Spray with White Vinegar to Kill Microscopic Molds
Even if there are no visible mold spots on your peppers, it's almost certain that microscopic mold spores are clinging to the surface. With a little time and moisture, they'll begin to grow. Instead of rinsing your peppers under tap water, spray them with white vinegar and set them aside for a few minutes. Rub each pepper with a clean dish towel or paper towel, paying special attention to folds surrounding the base and crown. Avoid the temptation to "soak" peppers in a water and vinegar solution, as the water can easily seep under the stem.
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Wrap Each Pepper in a Dry Paper Towel
Wrap each pepper in a paper towel before placing in a ziplock bag or storage container. Due to a process known as capillary action, fibrous materials like paper towels can cause water to rise on its own. Vapors naturally released by the peppers will get sucked into the paper towels. Do not close the top of the bag or container, as it will cut off air circulation.
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