How To Store Fresh Artichokes? (Tips & Guidelines)

To store fresh artichokes, you should wrap them (unwashed) with a plastic bag and store them in the fridge, which can last up to 7 days. Also, don’t forget to spray the water on the attached stem to retain moisture. 

Apart from that, this article will provide you with more tips relevant to the “How to store fresh artichokes?” topic. Hence, you not only savor the flavorful taste but also save your time and effort by acquiring the proper way to preserve these veggies.

Without any further hesitation, let’s figure it out now!

Related: List of vegetables from A to Z

2 Best Ways To Store Artichokes

If you are seeking the ultimate to preserve this popular vegetable, follow the 3 suggestions below to put your mind at ease.

In the fridge

It is advisable to store it in the refrigerator immediately if you are not going to use it soon. Otherwise, you might not maintain its fresh quality and flavor as well.

Regarding this method, here are some simple steps:

  • Step 1: Wrapping this nutritious vegetable with plastic or paper bags. Make sure you don’t wash it before storing it. Otherwise, the peel will probably become wilted.
  • Step 2: If it has an attached stem, be mindful of spraying little water on it to keep hydrated.
  • Step 3: Place in the fridge drawer to use within 7 days.

In the freezer

Usually, cutting this great vegetable without using it instantly will result in brown color and unpleasant taste. In other words, it is not ideal for freezing in a raw situation.

However, you can keep in mind some essential steps to store the cooked artichoke well in the freezer for around 1-2 months.

  • Step 1: Cut all the excess leaves and remain the heart.
  • Step 2: Rinse the edible part under water to remove all trapped dirt.
  • Step 3: Boil lemon juice water to blanch this vegetable, which will avoid the bitter taste later. The boiling time will hinge on the size of the heart, generally 2-5 mins.
  • Step 4: Wait until it drains the water and then transfers to a tray to freeze.

How To Choose A Fresh Artichoke

There is no denying that the fresh artichoke will lend a rich and pleasant taste. As a result, understanding some crucial elements following is preferable to opt for the ideal fresh one.

Testing the weight

An artichoke is firm and has proper weight, which indicates that it is fresh and healthy to pick. However, don’t mistake choosing the bigger one because the small size one will provide the better taste. In this case, you can compare the weight among several baby sizes to select the ultimate fresh choice.

Check for green leaves

Another factor to consider is the leaves. If you find any dark or discolored leaves, this vegetable might not be fresh enough to choose. In contrast, the raw one will have light green leaves, which are packed tightly.

In addition, a fresh artichoke will have crips leaves. Hence, you can take advantage of this fact to check with a squeak test. Indeed, hearing squeak sounds from the leaves means it is still fresh to choose.

How To Know When Artichoke Is Going Bad

Consuming the wilted or spoiled artichoke might not only mess up the usual flavor but also cause harm to your health. Therefore, be aware of some notable signs, including:

  • The leaves lose and turn to dark brown colors.
  • Tips are split.
  • There is a large hole in the top center.
  • The weight is lighter because it is dehydrated.
  • Be spongy when squeezed.

Furthermore, this plant is stored exceeding the estimated time for storage, which might not be good enough to abuse.

However, the leaves are discolored due to frost damage, don’t worry, this vegetable is still ready to eat.

How Long Do Artichokes Last After Opening?

Admittedly, there is no precise time when it comes to the shelf life of artichokes after opening. Indeed, it generally depends on the storing conditions.

First and foremost, the refrigerator drawer’s environment can maintain its freshness for up to 1 week.

Moreover, the freezing option might deliver you a longer result, around 1-2 months. However, it won’t get the full flavor compared to usual. Otherwise, you might use this vegetable in less than 4 days on the counter at room temperature.

Last but not least, it is favorable to savor the fresh artichoke once buying it, which provides the unmistakable takes and remains highly nutritious.

Do I Need To Wash Artichokes?

Yes, in case you intend to use it soon. But, unfortunately, it is hard to clarify the tiny sand inside this delicious vegetable. As a result, washing it is recommended to avoid trapped dirt and other undesirable things.

What’s more, if you intend to freeze this veggie for long-term storage, it is essential to clean it. Otherwise, there is no need to rinse it underwater, especially when storing it in the fridge drawer, which will speed up the spoiled process of the artichoke.

What part of the artichoke is poisonous?

Generally, most parts of it are edible without toxic elements, for instance, leaves or stems. Despite that, be conscious of eating the choke or regard it as a hairy choke, which might cause a choking hazard.

What’s more, it is not suitable for your health if you eat the cooked artichoke after 24 hours. Even though there is no proof about toxic components, the changed elements will never bring an excellent taste and positively impact your health.

Why Do Artichokes Turn Brown?

The phenomenon in which the artichokes turn brown is a chemical reaction once it is cut and left at room temperature. Indeed, the enzymes in this veggie will expose to the air and then react with polyphenols, causing the brown-black or color on the surface.

In this case, the ideal way is to preserve the entire artichoke in the fridge with a plastic bag. Then, only wash and cut when you need this ingredient for your meal.

Tamara Pierce

Tamara Pierce is a food writer at Elapasony, passionate about exploring diverse cuisines and sharing recipes and food experiences. From trendy restaurants to local hotspots, she's always on the lookout for new and exciting flavors.

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