Fresh water chestnuts

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Fresh water chestnuts, with their satisfying crisp texture and subtly sweet flavor, are a versatile ingredient for stir-fries, salads, and appetizers. Proper storage is key to preserving their delightful crunch and preventing spoilage, ensuring you can enjoy their unique culinary contributions.
Storage Time
Fresh, unpeeled water chestnuts can last for 2-3 weeks in the refrigerator. Once peeled, they are best consumed within 3-5 days.
Temperature
Store fresh, unpeeled water chestnuts in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator, ideally between 0-4°C (32-40°F).
Freezing
While fresh water chestnuts are best enjoyed raw or lightly cooked, they can be frozen for longer storage. Blanch them for 2-3 minutes in boiling water, then immediately plunge them into ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain thoroughly and freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to airtight freezer bags or containers. Frozen water chestnuts may lose some of their crispness upon thawing, making them more suitable for cooked dishes rather than raw applications. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Signs of Spoilage
- Soft or mushy texture instead of firm and crisp.
- Development of dark spots or mold on the surface.
- A sour or fermented odor.



