Placing certain foods in the fridge seems a sensible practice to prolong freshness, but it is not always the best choice. One of the most used ingredients in Portuguese cuisine loses flavor and texture when subject to low temperatures, something that is still unknown to many.
Cold compromises texture and taste
Instead of conserving, cold can damage the structure of this food. Studies show that refrigeration alters its characteristics, leaving it farinos and less juicy. For those who value fresh ingredients, this error can significantly affect the end result of the dishes.
According to Taste, cold also interferes with flavor, impairing the aromatic compounds that give this ingredient their characteristic taste. If you ever felt that after leaving the fridge, it was insipid, this change explains why.
What the experts say
According to Gregory Lofts, culinary producer quoted by the website of Martha Stewart“When a tomato is refrigered, it is essentially removing its taste and texture.”
He explains that this fruit has an enzyme that reacts to the cold, causing the cell membranes to rupture and making it softer.
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Risk of absorbing odors
Another problem pointed out by the same source is the ease with which this ingredient absorbs odors from other foods due to its thin skin. When stored close to cheese, onions or products with intense aromas, their flavor can be easily affected.
To avoid this contamination and preserve their qualities, experts recommend that it be kept at room temperature in a dry place protected from direct sunlight.
Natural maturation preserves aroma
Also according to Taste, conserving this food outside the refrigerator allows it to mature naturally, developing its taste and aroma properly. On the contrary, the cold interrupts this process, resulting in a less tasty product.
If it is not completely mature, leaving it at room temperature accelerates maturation, ensuring better texture and a richer flavor. However, there are situations where the fridge may be necessary.
Too mature: what to do?
If it is already overly mature and not consumed immediately, according to the same source, it can be stored in the fridge temporarily. In this case, it is recommended to remove it a few hours before it is used. This simple gesture helps recover part of the scent and intensity of flavor.
And when is it already cut?
When cut, such as the refrigerator becomes the best option to prevent rapid deterioration.
The form of storage is essential: the ideal is to put it with the cut part facing down in a hermetic container. Thus, it remains cool longer, avoiding the dryness and absorption of odors.
If used in soups or sauces, the change in cold texture has less impact. But if served in salads or fresh dishes, it is essential to leave it at room temperature before serving, to recover the taste.
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