Ripen Fruits Faster With These Easy-To-Follow Tips
Waiting for a hard avocado or a green banana to soften can be a test of patience when you're wanting a healthy snack. Most fruits are picked before they are fully ripe so they can survive the trip to the grocery store. This means you often bring home produce that isn't quite ready to eat.
Fortunately, you can speed up the natural ripening process at home using simple items you already have in your kitchen.
Store fruit in the sunlight
Sunlight and warmth from a window can help jumpstart the ripening process for fruits like tomatoes and stone fruits. Place your produce on a windowsill that receives indirect light to gently warm the skin.
You should avoid direct, scorching heat, as this can sometimes cook the fruit or cause it to shrivel before it softens.
Place mangoes in a bowl of rice
In many cultures, placing fruit like mangoes or persimmons into a container of uncooked rice is a traditional ripening hack. The rice acts as a physical barrier that traps the ethylene gas very effectively while also absorbing any excess moisture that could cause mold.
Simply bury the fruit under the rice for a day or two. Just remember to check on it frequently so the fruit doesn't become overripe while it's hidden.
Use the top of the fridge
Temperature plays a big role in how quickly fruit matures. Most fruits ripen faster in a warm environment rather than a cold one. The top of your refrigerator often generates a small amount of gentle heat as the appliance runs.
Placing your paper bag of fruit in this warm spot can shave a day or two off the ripening process. Just make sure the area is clean and that the bag is not blocking any important air vents.
Seal fruit inside a paper bag
Placing your fruit inside a simple brown paper bag is one of the most effective ways to trigger ripening. As fruit ripens, it releases a natural gas called ethylene. When you close the bag, this gas becomes trapped around the fruit, which signals it to soften much faster than it would on the counter.
This works perfectly for peaches, pears, and plums. Just be sure to fold the top loosely so some air can still circulate.
Wrap peaches in linen
This hack requires a linen napkin or towel that you probably already have lying around. Place your peaches stem-down on top of the linen and cover them with a second linen cloth. Make sure the peaches are spaced apart.
Now you can let the peaches sit until ripe. The best part about this hack is that you'll know they're ready to eat when you can smell their sweet fragrance throughout your kitchen.
By using these simple strategies, you can take control of your kitchen and ensure your ingredients are ready exactly when you need them.
Remember that every piece of fruit is a little bit different, so it helps to check them daily. With a little bit of warmth and the right environment, you'll always have perfectly ripe snacks on hand.