Many people believe that dried apricots can’t spoil and therefore don’t require special storage conditions. However, this isn’t entirely true. Even well-dried apricots still contain some moisture, which can lead to bacterial growth if not stored properly. To preserve the flavor and nutritional value of dried apricots, it’s important to know how to store them correctly.
Preparing Apricots for Storage
Before storing dried apricots, it’s essential to prepare them. First, sort through them and discard any that are soft or damp. Place the apricots on paper towels or a drying rack to remove any excess moisture in a dark place. This will help prevent mold and pests. After this additional drying, heat them in an oven at 70-80°C for about 1-1.5 hours. If the apricots are artificially colored, soak them in cold water for 2 hours to remove the excess dye. Then, dry them in a well-ventilated, dark place and heat them in the oven as described above. This process will extend their shelf life.
Creating the Right Storage Conditions
To store dried apricots at home, you need to choose the right place, a sealed container, and maintain the correct temperature and humidity. If you have a large quantity, divide it into smaller portions. This will help prevent the entire batch from spoiling if one part becomes contaminated.
- Location and light: In your home, you can store apricots in a pantry or a kitchen cabinet, in a dark, dry place, away from sunlight and heat sources. If properly prepared and packaged, they can even be stored in the refrigerator or freezer.
- Temperature and humidity: Apricots don’t tolerate heat well. The ideal storage temperature is between 10-20°C. If the temperature is too high, the apricots will stick together and spoil. Humidity should also be kept below 70%. High humidity can lead to mold growth.
- Containers: Glass jars or airtight containers are the best choice for storing dried apricots. Ensure a tight seal to prevent air and moisture from getting in. For freezing, use specialized freezer bags with a zipper seal.
- Avoid plastic bags and cloth bags: Plastic bags can trap moisture and lead to mold growth. Cloth bags allow for too much air circulation and can cause the apricots to dry out and become brittle.
- Store separately: Avoid storing apricots with other dried fruits like prunes, figs, or apples. Each fruit has different optimal storage conditions. Additionally, mixing different types of dried fruits can lead to a transfer of flavors and aromas.
Storage Duration:
- At room temperature: Up to 30 days in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.
- In a pantry: Up to 6 months in an airtight container.
- In the refrigerator: Up to 10 months for well-dried apricots.
- In the freezer: Best for fresh apricots that have been dried and are intended for long-term storage.
By following these tips, you can enjoy the delicious taste and nutritional benefits of dried apricots for months to come.