Cherries are a summertime delight, bursting with juice, vibrant hues, and a naturally sweet flavor. These little gems, whether you prefer Bing, Rainier, or sour varieties like Montmorency, also pack antioxidants, vitamin C, and anti-inflammatory benefits. However, they can quickly turn mushy or develop mold if not handled correctly.
If you are frustrated by tossing out spoiled fruit, here we’ll cover a solution beyond the pantry or freezer: a properly prepped refrigerated storage. You’ll discover precise techniques for preparing the fruit and receive bonus tips for freezing and selecting premium cherries at your local market.
How to prep and store cherries in the fridge
Don’t simply toss cherries into a bowl or plastic bag. Excess moisture is a primary adversary that accelerates decay and encourages the growth of mold. Start by meticulously sorting the fruit: remove any that appear bruised, cracked, or overly soft, as any damaged cherry can compromise the quality of the entire batch.
Refrain from washing the cherries immediately since adding water increases moisture levels. Instead, rinse them only right before you’re ready to enjoy them. Choose an airtight container and line it with a paper towel to absorb any residual dampness. Arrange the cherries in a single, flat layer rather than stacking them, because crowding traps humidity and speeds up spoilage.
For an extra measure of protection, add another paper towel on top of the fruit before sealing the container. It’s best to store this container in the main compartment of your refrigerator rather than in the crisper drawer, which tends to retain excess moisture. This careful method can keep cherries crisp and flavorful for 7 to 10 days.
Extra tips for longer-lasting cherries
Even when cherries are stored optimally in the refrigerator, a few additional steps can boost their longevity even more:
- Select high-quality cherries: When shopping, choose cherries that are firm and glossy with vibrant green stems. Avoid fruit that has soft spots or wrinkled skin, as these indicate they have already begun to deteriorate.
- Keep stems intact until consumption: Stems naturally seal the fruit, reducing moisture loss and limiting the chance of splits. Remove them only when the fruit is about to be enjoyed.
- Inspect daily for signs of spoilage: Examine your stored cherries each day, promptly removing any that show leakage or mold to protect the rest of the fruit from contamination.
- Freeze smartly: When long-term storage is necessary, begin by washing the fruit thoroughly, ensuring it’s completely dry, and then remove the stems. Spread the cherries out on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Once firm, transfer them to an airtight freezer bag, gently squeeze out the excess air, and seal the bag. This technique preserves the cherries for up to 6 months.
By bypassing the freezer for short-term storage and eliminating the pantry option, you ensure that every cherry is enjoyed at its peak of flavor and texture. This approach not only preserves their natural sweetness and nutritional value but also aligns with smart kitchen practices that reduce food waste and support a more sustainable lifestyle.