If you’re an avid chilli lover, then you know how important it is to preserve your chillies and extend their shelf life. Whether you’ve grown them yourself or purchased them from a store, preserving your chillies not only ensures that they stay fresh for a longer period but also allows you to have a steady supply throughout the year.
Freezing Chillis
When it comes to preserving chillies, freezing is one of the easiest and most effective methods. If you’ve got a surplus of chillies or you’re worried about them going bad, then freezing them is a great option. All you need to do is wash the peppers and dry them thoroughly before placing them in a sealed container or freezer bag. For best results, consider cutting them into smaller pieces before freezing. This way, you can easily use just the amount you need and they will defrost quickly.
Drying Chillies
Drying is another popular way to preserve chillies. To dry chillies, simply string them together using a needle and thread and hang them in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated room. Alternatively, you can use an oven, dehydrator, or microwave to dry them. Dried chillies can be ground into a powder and used as a spice or left whole to be rehydrated and used in cooking.
Pickling Chillies
Pickling is a great way to preserve chillies while also adding flavour. There are many different pickling recipes out there, but the most basic one involves boiling vinegar, water, and salt before pouring it over the peppers in a jar. You can also add herbs and spices to the mix, depending on your personal preference. Pickled chillies are delicious on sandwiches, burgers, and tacos and can also be used as a garnish.
Canning Chillies
Canning involves sealing chillies in a jar with vinegar or oil and sterilizing them in boiling water. While canning requires some equipment and know-how, it’s one of the best ways to preserve chillies for long periods of time. Canned chillies can be used as a topping, in dips, or in chilli sauces.
Keeping Chillis Fresh
If you’re not quite ready to preserve your chillies, there are still some things you can do to extend their shelf life. Keeping them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight can help prevent them from spoiling. You can also store them in the refrigerator for a week or two. Additionally, placing them in a paper bag with an apple or banana can help absorb any excess moisture and keep them fresh for longer.
Preserving chilleis is a great way to save money, reduce waste, and extend their shelf life. Whether you’re freezing, drying, pickling, or canning, each method has its unique benefits and can help you retain the flavour and heat of your chillies. So, go ahead and try preserving some of your chillies and enjoy your favourite spicy dishes all year round.