Vegetables are a treasure trove of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Those with vibrant hues are brimming with carotenoids and flavonoids. Moreover, consuming a regular diet of veggies offers protection against many illnesses and disease. They are an excellent source of fibre and keep things moving smoothly on the bowel front. The trick is you need to arm yourself with information about how to buy the best quality produce. In order to milk the maximum amount of nutrients from your veggies, it is best to devour them when they are at their freshest. Sadly modern life rarely allows for that. If stored properly, you can still get a lot from your veggies. Just provide the right conditions for storage. Follow the handy guide below and work up some veggie magic!
| Vegetables | Tips for Buying | Tips for Storing |
| Potatoes | Avoid potatoes which have green patches, or which are sprouting. Also avoid those which bear dark or cut marks. |
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| Cucumber | Buy pieces which are firm to touch. |
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| Capsicum | Medium sized pieces that are firm and unbruised. |
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| Cauliflower | Buy those with bright green leaves and firm, white heads. Avoid those boasting mould, or discoloured brown and yellow spots. |
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| Okra | Avoid large, mature pieces that are tough with stiff fibres. Also avoid blemished or discoloured pieces. |
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| Carrots | They should possess a bright, rich hue. Stay away from pieces that give off a withered appearance or are cracked. |
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| Brinjals | Pick firm pieces with a smooth texture and a deep purple colour. Avoid those with that are blemished. They should be unshrivelled. |
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| Spinach | Avoid leaves that are wilted, discoloured (black) or bruised. Opt for fresh green leaves. |
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| Fenugreek |
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| Peas | Pods that are bright in hue and tender. |
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References:
Books:
2015. 100 Health- Boosting Foods. London: Hamlyn.
Singh, R. 1989. Creative Cookery. New Dehli: Rupa and Co.
Websites:
Au, C. How to Store Fresh Okra.
Builder, M. How To Store Spinach So It Doesn’t Get Slimy. 07 Feb 2018.
Butler, G.9 tips for buying, storing and prepping fresh cauliflower. 10 May 2014.
Dried Fenugreek Leaves (Kasuri Methi)
Learn How to Store Cucumbers for Longer– Lasting Cukes. 12 Sept 2019
How should peas be stored?
How to buy the freshest vegetables
2 comments
Wowww…a wonderful article…that attracts us to the goodness of veggies…their nutrient value
very informative…these type of do’s n dont’s
really help many in the kitchen😀
GOOD WORK …FOODISTAN🥒
and Sarah Fahad🌟
Wow worth reading your articles Foodistan. Much much informative. Love reading your posts..❤❤