Should you freeze grated beetroot or store in fridge?

Question

Grated beetroot: freeze or fridge? We compare the best storage methods to help you decide how to preserve its color, texture, and nutrients.

Answer 1

Freezing grated beetroot is the best option for long-term storage, preserving its quality and nutrients. Refrigerating grated beetroot is suitable only for short-term use, typically within 2-3 days.

Detailed Explanation:

Freezing grated beetroot is the preferred method for preserving it for extended periods. Here's why:

1. Long-Term Preservation: Freezing significantly slows down enzymatic activity and microbial growth, which are the primary causes of spoilage. This allows you to store grated beetroot for several months without significant loss of quality.
2. Nutrient Retention: While some nutrient loss can occur during freezing, it's generally minimal compared to the degradation that happens during prolonged refrigeration.
3. Convenience: Frozen grated beetroot is readily available for use in recipes. You can simply take out the amount you need and add it directly to your dish.

Refrigerating grated beetroot is only suitable for short-term storage because:

1. Limited Shelf Life: Grated beetroot stored in the refrigerator will only last for about 2-3 days before it starts to deteriorate in quality, becoming soft and potentially developing mold.
2. Faster Spoilage: The higher temperature in the refrigerator allows enzymatic activity and microbial growth to continue, leading to faster spoilage.

Pro Tip:

Before freezing grated beetroot, blanch it briefly in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then immediately cool it in ice water. This helps to deactivate enzymes that can cause changes in color, texture, and flavor during freezing, resulting in a better quality product after thawing.