
Cedar nuts are the seeds of a pine tree that grows in Siberia. They are known for their medicinal properties and pleasant taste. However, among all common types of nuts, pine kernels are considered to be the most perishable. Therefore, there are a lot of questions about their storage.
How to prepare for storage?
Перед хранением кедровые семена следует правильно подготовить, чтобы они могли As long as possible retain their flavor and useful properties. To do this, you will need to dry them:
- Spill the seeds in an even layer on any surface;
- Leave them in a warm dry place for several days;
- Periodically stirring.
If you leave the nuts to be stored while still wet, very soon they will be covered with a layer of mold, will get an unpleasant smell and taste. Spoiled fruits can not be eaten, as this can lead to poisoning.
Today you can find on sale special devices designed for drying pine nuts, but it is worth remembering that the entire process must be constantly monitored. The kernels must not be over-dried. This will not help extend their shelf life.
Is it possible to store pine nuts in cones?
The fruits of Siberian pine can be left in the cones if you want. This way they will retain their quality for a long time, but it is very important to store them in a dark, cool, well-ventilated room.
To protect the fruit from rodents, you can put them in bags and hang them up high. If the room is too humid, mold can form on the buds.
Can you store pine nuts in the shells?
Kernels in the shell can retain their useful properties for a long time. In this form they can be stored up to 1 year. To extend the shelf life of Siberian pine nuts in the shell, it is recommended to store them in a cool place or in the refrigerator. In room conditions, their shelf life is reduced to about half a year.
In the shell, the kernels can be stored in a polyethylene bag - the main thing is to avoid humidity, direct sunlight and ensure adequate air ventilation. If the kernels remain exposed to ultraviolet light, they will develop an unpleasant, bitter taste.
Even in the most favorable conditions, the quality of the kernels should be checked periodically.
Can peeled pine nuts be stored after cleaning?
In peeled form, they are able to retain their flavor and useful properties for up to 3 months. Without the shell, they can be stored only in the refrigerator, preferably in the freezer department. A glass container with a tight lid or a special plastic bag for freezing foods to avoid foreign odors is suitable for this purpose.
Even with all conditions, the product should be checked every 5 days. If the storage rules are neglected, the peeled seeds will spoil very quickly.
Can kernels be kept roasted?
Roasted Siberian pine seeds have a pleasant taste and aroma, but they should not be stored for a long time in this form. It is recommended to use them immediately, otherwise after some time they will acquire a bitter taste. This is due to the fact that the heat treatment kernels begin to release oils, which then bitter.
How to choose the right cedar nuts?
Even in the most favorable conditions and following all the rules only quality kernels will be stored for a long time. Here are some of the criteria for their selection:
- the cones should have a pleasant aroma, be without traces of mold;
- the peeled kernels must have a distinctive ivory color, yellow cast is acceptable;
- if the kernels have a green color, it indicates that they are spoiled, possibly already moldy;
- unpeeled fruits should be slightly moist, with a resinous aroma;
- dry seeds have virtually no odor.
The ripening season of cedar pine fruits is September-October. This is when the cones fall from the trees to the ground on their own.