Are You Supposed to Refrigerate Cherries?
Yes, you absolutely should refrigerate cherries. Refrigeration dramatically slows down spoilage, helping to keep your cherries fresh, firm, and flavorful for a much longer period.
The Sweet Story Behind Cherry Storage
Cherries, those delightful jewels of summer, are a fleeting pleasure. Their short growing season and delicate nature mean that proper storage is essential to enjoying them at their peak. While a bowl of cherries on the counter might look idyllic, it’s a recipe for rapid deterioration. Understanding why and how to refrigerate them correctly can make all the difference.
Benefits of Refrigerating Cherries
Refrigeration offers several key advantages when it comes to preserving cherries:
- Slowed Spoilage: Cool temperatures significantly inhibit the growth of mold and bacteria, the primary culprits behind fruit spoilage.
- Maintained Freshness: Refrigeration helps maintain the cherry’s crisp texture and prevents it from becoming soft and mushy.
- Extended Shelf Life: Properly refrigerated cherries can last for up to two weeks, compared to just a day or two at room temperature.
- Preserved Flavor: Refrigeration helps slow down the process of enzymatic breakdown, which can lead to a loss of flavor and sweetness.
The Refrigeration Process: Step-by-Step
Refrigerating cherries correctly is a simple process, but following these steps will ensure optimal results:
- Sort and Inspect: Before refrigerating, carefully sort through your cherries and discard any that are bruised, damaged, or moldy. These cherries can accelerate the spoilage of the entire batch.
- Do NOT Wash Immediately: Resist the urge to wash your cherries before storing them. Excess moisture promotes mold growth. Wait until you’re ready to eat them.
- Proper Container: Store cherries in a breathable container. A perforated plastic bag or a container lined with paper towels works well. The paper towels absorb excess moisture.
- Optimal Placement: Place the container of cherries in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. This area typically has higher humidity, which helps prevent the cherries from drying out.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While refrigeration is beneficial, certain mistakes can negate its advantages:
- Washing Before Storage: As mentioned earlier, washing cherries before storing them increases the risk of mold.
- Sealed Containers: Storing cherries in airtight containers traps moisture and creates a breeding ground for mold.
- Overcrowding: Overcrowding the container restricts airflow, leading to uneven cooling and increased moisture.
- Ignoring Damaged Cherries: Failing to remove damaged cherries allows spoilage to spread quickly.
- Storing Near Strong Odors: Cherries can absorb odors from other foods in the refrigerator. Keep them away from strong-smelling items like onions and garlic.
Different Types of Cherries and Refrigeration
The principles of refrigeration apply to all types of cherries, including:
- Sweet Cherries (Bing, Rainier, Lapin): These are the most common types and benefit greatly from refrigeration.
- Sour Cherries (Montmorency, Morello): Often used in pies and jams, sour cherries should also be refrigerated to maintain their quality.
- Dried Cherries: While dried cherries have a longer shelf life, refrigerating them can help prevent them from becoming sticky and clumping together.
Table: Cherry Types and Ideal Storage
| Cherry Type | Optimal Storage Method | Shelf Life (Refrigerated) | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sweet Cherries | Perforated bag, crisper drawer | Up to 2 weeks | Sort before storing; avoid washing until ready to eat. |
| Sour Cherries | Perforated bag, crisper drawer | Up to 2 weeks | Similar to sweet cherries. |
| Dried Cherries | Airtight container (optional fridge) | Up to 6 months (refrigerated) | Prevents sticking; maintains texture. |
Frequently Asked Questions About Cherry Refrigeration
Should I wash my cherries before refrigerating them?
No, you should not wash your cherries before refrigerating them. Washing introduces moisture, which can accelerate the growth of mold and bacteria. Wait to wash them until you are ready to eat them.
What is the best container to store cherries in the refrigerator?
The best container is a perforated plastic bag or a container lined with paper towels. Perforations allow for airflow, while paper towels absorb excess moisture, preventing mold growth.
How long can I store cherries in the refrigerator?
Properly refrigerated cherries can last for up to two weeks. However, it’s essential to regularly check them for signs of spoilage and discard any that are starting to deteriorate.
What is the ideal temperature for storing cherries?
The ideal temperature for storing cherries is between 32°F and 36°F (0°C and 2°C). This is typically the temperature range of the crisper drawer in your refrigerator.
Can I freeze cherries?
Yes, you can freeze cherries. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. Frozen cherries can last for up to a year. Pitting them beforehand is generally recommended.
What are the signs that cherries have gone bad?
Signs that cherries have gone bad include: softness, discoloration, mold growth, a sour or fermented smell, and a slimy texture. Discard any cherries that exhibit these signs.
Does refrigerating cherries affect their nutritional value?
Refrigeration doesn’t significantly affect the nutritional value of cherries. While some vitamin degradation may occur over time, the benefits of preventing spoilage far outweigh any minor nutritional losses.
Is it safe to eat cherries that have been refrigerated for more than two weeks?
While cherries may still appear edible after two weeks, their quality will likely have diminished. It’s best to use your judgment. If they look or smell off, discard them.
Can I refrigerate pitted cherries?
Yes, you can refrigerate pitted cherries, but they will spoil faster than unpitted cherries. Store them in an airtight container and use them within a day or two.
Why do cherries sometimes become sticky in the refrigerator?
Cherries become sticky in the refrigerator due to excess moisture and the breakdown of their sugars. To prevent this, ensure proper airflow and absorbent materials in the container.
Are organic cherries different in terms of storage needs?
Organic cherries have the same storage needs as conventionally grown cherries. The key is proper refrigeration and moisture control, regardless of how they were grown.
What should I do if my cherries are slightly soft but don’t show other signs of spoilage?
If your cherries are slightly soft but otherwise look and smell fine, you can still eat them. However, they are best used in cooked preparations like pies or jams where their texture is less noticeable.