There’s nothing worse than reaching for fresh herbs to liven up your cooking, only to find them wilted and sad in the back of the fridge. But did you know that some herbs actually thrive when stored in the fridge, if you do it right? With a few simple tricks, you can extend the life of your favourite herbs, reduce waste, and keep your meals tasting fresh. Here’s a rundown of the best herbs to refrigerate and how to make them last, plus a game-changing gadget that’s making waves in kitchens across Oakleigh… and Australia!
Which Herbs Love the Fridge?
Not all herbs are created equal when it comes to storage. Soft-stemmed herbs like parsley, coriander (which yankee cousins call cilantro), dill, and mint do best in the fridge. These varieties tend to wilt quickly at room temperature but stay perky for up to two weeks when stored properly in the cold. Hardier herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano can handle the fridge too, though they’ll also do fine in a cool, dark cupboard if used within a week.
Parsley and Coriander: These leafy greens are fridge superstars. Trim the stems, pop them in a jar with an inch of water (like a bouquet), and cover loosely with a plastic bag. Change the water every few days, and they’ll stay crisp and vibrant.
Dill and Mint: Both love moisture. Wrap them lightly in a damp paper towel, place in a sealed container or plastic bag, and tuck them into the crisper drawer. This method keeps them fresh for up to 10 days.
Chives and Tarragon: Treat these like flowers: stand them upright in a glass of water, cover with a plastic bag, and secure with a rubber band. Store in the fridge and snip as needed.
Basil: While basil prefers room temperature, if you must refrigerate it, wrap the leaves gently in a dry paper towel and place in a sealed container. Avoid washing until ready to use, as excess moisture will see them rot quicker.
Herbs to Keep Out of the Fridge
Some herbs, like sage and bay leaves prefer to be stored at room temperature. Basil, in particular, turns black and slimy in the cold. Instead, keep it in a glass of water on the bench, away from direct sunlight, and change the water daily. Sage and bay leaves can be hung to dry or stored in a cool, dark place.
Pro Tips for Herb Fridge Storage
- Don’t wash before storing: Moisture is the enemy of freshness. Only rinse herbs right before use.
- Use airtight containers: Oxygen speeds up spoilage, so seal herbs in containers or reusable silicone bags.
- Check humidity: Most fridges have a high-humidity drawer—use it for herbs that wilt easily.
- Freeze for long-term storage: Chop hardy herbs like rosemary or thyme, spread on a tray to freeze, then transfer to a bag. They’ll keep for months and can be tossed straight into hot dishes.
The Game-Changer: Fruit Hero
It’s not just for fruit and veg! If you’re tired of throwing out sad, soggy herbs, there’s a new gadget worth checking out: Fruit Hero. This innovative fridge device uses advanced gas control to keep fruits and herbs fresher for up to three times longer than usual. Simply place your herbs inside, and Fruit Hero does the rest: no more wasted bunches or last-minute dashes to the shops. It’s a simple, eco-friendly way to make your groceries last, saving you time and money. Plus, it’s compact enough to fit in any fridge, making it a must-have for busy households and home cooks who have come to expect fresh flavours.
Next time you bring home a bunch of herbs from Alexanders, give these storage tips a try. With the right approach (and maybe a little help from Fruit Hero), you’ll enjoy fresh, flavourful herbs for weeks, not days. What’s your go-to herb, and how do you keep it fresh? Tell us when you’re next in at 12 Chester St., Oakleigh!