Latkan (Burmese grape) is one of the most popular local fruits of the monsoon. This small fruit with its sour-sweet taste is both delicious and full of nutrients. Rich in vitamin C, calcium, dietary fibre and antioxidants, latkan helps boost the body's immunity. But often, because it is not stored properly, the fruit spoils quickly and its nutritional value can also fall.
According to experts, as with any fruit, it is important to follow the right storage method for latkan, because excess heat, humidity or storing it the wrong way can spoil the fruit's taste, smell and nutritional value.
Latkan is a seasonal fruit and is available in the market for only a short time, so many people buy a lot at once. But if it is not stored properly it can rot quickly. A few rules therefore need to be followed to keep its nutrients intact.
Room temperature and the fridge
Freshly bought latkan usually keeps well for 2 to 4 days at normal room temperature, but it can spoil quickly in hot, humid weather.
To keep it a few days longer, it can be kept in the fridge. Stored the wrong way in the fridge, however, the fruit's taste and texture can be spoiled.
Freezing
For long-term storage it can be kept in the freezer, although the fruit's natural texture may change somewhat. Before freezing:
- peel the fruit;
- separate the seeds;
- pack it in small portions;
- use airtight bags.
The frozen fruit can later be used to make juice, smoothies or desserts.
Washing, preserves and juice
Experts generally advise against washing fruit and then storing it for a long time, because fungus can grow quickly if it is kept wet. It is better to wash it just before eating. If it must be washed, it should be dried completely before storing.
Latkan can also be preserved by making pickle, jam or juice. Fresh juice is best not kept for long; even in the fridge it is best drunk within 24 hours.
Rich in taste and nutrients, latkan can be kept good for a long time if stored properly. A little care and the right method keep much of the fruit's taste, freshness and nutritional value intact, so buy this seasonal fruit, store it properly and share the pleasure of healthy food with the whole family.
Source: Jagonews24. First published in Bengali on The Agro News.
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