My family bought a fresh ginseng before and it has been sitting in the refrigerator for a while. Today, I just remembered and I want to ask if it is still safe to eat.
Can you eat fresh ginseng that has been stored for a long time?
You can eat it if there is no mold.
Fresh ginseng is a popular nourishing ingredient and a traditional Chinese medicine. It has the effects of nourishing qi, replenishing deficiency, invigorating the spleen, and nourishing the lungs. However, fresh ginseng has a high water content, making it susceptible to mold and rot. If the fresh ginseng has been stored properly and there is no mold or softening, it can still be consumed even if it has been stored for a long time. However, if there is severe mold or rot, it is generally not recommended to continue eating it to avoid discomfort.
What should I do if fresh ginseng is moldy?
If fresh ginseng is severely moldy, it is generally recommended to discard it and not continue eating it. If the mold is mild, you can consider the following methods to salvage it:
1. Rinse the fresh ginseng in water to remove dirt.
2. Use a small knife to cut off the moldy parts.
3. Then, dry the fresh ginseng in the sun or in a dehydrator.
4. Finally, store the dried fresh ginseng properly.
5. Another option is to use it to make liquor and store it in alcohol.
How long can fresh ginseng be stored?
It can be stored for 1 week to 1 year, depending on various factors.
Fresh ginseng contains a lot of water and is prone to mold. The storage time of fresh ginseng depends on the storage method. When stored in a regular refrigerator, it can generally be stored for about 1 week. If stored properly and in a specific way, some fresh ginseng can be stored for several months or even up to 1 year.
How to store fresh ginseng?
Refrigerator storage
1. Sprinkle some water on the surface of the fresh ginseng.
2. Place the fresh ginseng in a self-sealing bag (be careful not to damage the root).
3. Seal the bag and poke a few small holes on the surface with a toothpick.
4. Then, store the bag in the refrigerator's refrigeration compartment.
5. It can generally be stored for about 1 week in the refrigerator.
Moss storage
1. Gently wrap the fresh ginseng with moss.
2. Then, place it in a foam box or another container.
3. Sprinkle enough water on the surface to keep the moss moist.
4. Store the box in a cool and ventilated place.
5. It can generally be stored for about 7-14 days.
Alcohol storage
1. Brush off the dirt on the surface of the fresh ginseng.
2. Then, soak the fresh ginseng in high-proof liquor.
3. It can generally be stored for several months or even up to 1 year.
How to choose fresh ginseng?
During the harvesting season of fresh ginseng, there are various varieties with different qualities. Here are some tips on how to choose a high-quality fresh ginseng.
Look at the ginseng head
The ginseng head is a crucial part to consider when selecting ginseng. The number of ginseng "bowls" represents the age of the fresh ginseng. Therefore, choose fresh ginseng with more "bowls".
Check the weight
The weight of fresh ginseng is also an important criterion for selection. Different weights correspond to different grades of ginseng. The heavier it is, the higher the grade. Therefore, choose fresh ginseng with a relatively heavier weight.
Examine the ginseng body
A good fresh ginseng has a cylindrical shape, smooth surface, and tender skin. When gently scratched, white sap will appear. If the skin of the fresh ginseng is wrinkled and feels soft, it is not suitable for selection.
Check the ginseng roots
Another important factor in choosing fresh ginseng is to look at its roots. Choose fresh ginseng with intact roots. If there are obvious broken roots or lack of root stems, it should be chosen with caution.
