How to keep sapota (chikoo) fresh once ripe?

Question

Learn how to store ripe chikoo (sapota). Discover the best way to refrigerate this delicate fruit to keep it fresh and delicious for a few more days.

Answer 1

To keep ripe sapota (chikoo) fresh, store it in the refrigerator. This will slow down the ripening process and extend its shelf life for several days.

Detailed Explanation:

Once a sapota is ripe, it becomes quite perishable. The best way to preserve its freshness is to refrigerate it. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Check for Ripeness: Ensure the sapota is indeed ripe. A ripe sapota will yield slightly to gentle pressure and have a fragrant aroma.

2. Gentle Handling: Handle the ripe sapota carefully as it bruises easily.

3. Individual Wrapping (Optional): For extended storage, you can wrap each sapota individually in paper towels. This helps absorb excess moisture and prevents them from sticking together.

4. Refrigeration: Place the sapotas in a refrigerator crisper drawer. The crisper drawer provides a slightly more humid environment, which helps prevent them from drying out too quickly.

5. Storage Time: Refrigerated ripe sapotas can typically last for 3-5 days. Check them daily for any signs of spoilage, such as excessive softness or mold.

Pro Tip:

Don't refrigerate unripe sapotas! Refrigeration will halt the ripening process. Keep unripe sapotas at room temperature until they ripen, then transfer them to the refrigerator to prolong their freshness.