It’s a really nice feeling to pack the fridge full after a week’s shopping. But since you rarely find an empty fridge, everything usually ends up piled up all over the shelves. But it’s not difficult to keep your fridge tidy. Find out here how to organize your fridge properly so that spoiled food doesn’t stand a chance.

8 ingenious tricks to keep your fridge tidy

Open jars, bags and bottles, rotten vegetables – is your fridge a mess? No problem! The following tricks will help you to keep your fridge tidy:

Storage bins

Simply place one or more upright bins in your fridge. They are perfect for storing vegetables or keeping drinks cold.

Egg carton

Simply cut off the short flap and lid of an egg carton and put the bottom part in the fridge. This way you can store sauces and small bottles neatly in a row.

Clean bottoms

For this you need:

This is how it works:

Cut a mat to size so that it fits on the glass shelves of the fridge. That way, you won’t have any stains on it in future. You can easily remove the mat and clean it under the tap.

Fridge: Tidy up the freezer compartment

For this you need:

• 4 small plastic baskets
• Pen and paper

This is how it works:

With this trick, you will always fish the right thing out of the freezer at the first attempt in future. Attach notices to four plastic baskets with their contents – and you’ll quickly find what you’re looking for next time.

Turntable

With this trick, there’s no more rummaging and searching in the fridge, just order. Place jars and other containers on a turntable – and with just one movement you have the product of your desire right in front of you.

Snacks ready to hand in reusable jars

Do you always have too many vegetables in the fridge and never get around to eating them all before they spoil? Simply cut carrots, carrots & Co. into small pieces and put them in reusable jars. You can then store them perfectly in the side compartments of your fridge.

Fruit and vegetable bags

For this you need:

• Multipurpose staples
• Freezer bags

This is how it works:

This trick is another convenient way to store fruit and vegetables. Fill the desired fruit or vegetables into freezer bags and clamp them from above through the grid using a multi-purpose clamp. This also allows you to easily stack more food under the hanging bags.

Fruit on the fridge door

For this you need:

• Velcro tape
• 2 food storage containers

This is how it works:

For the last space-saving trick, you need Velcro tape and Tupperware containers. Stick one side of the Velcro tape to the bottom of the cans and the other side to the inside of the fridge door. Now you can fill the tins with fruit and stick them to the door.

With these eight tricks, putting things away in the fridge will be child’s play and your fridge will finally be tidy. No more space problems, no more squashed or crushed fruit and vegetables and no more endless searches in the depths of this household appliance.

Most kitchens have ceramic hobs on the stove. Compared to conventional cast iron hobs, they have the advantage that they can be operated in a more controlled manner, which makes them much more energy-efficient. Ceramic hobs are also very easy to clean – provided you always clean them immediately after cooking. However, even if you use a cleaning cloth immediately after cooking, strange metallic stains can still form on the surface over time. The question is: where do they come from and how do you get rid of them?

Cleaning the ceramic hob: Helpful tips to remove annoying stains

Unfortunately, simple scrubbing is not enough here, other means are required. However, these do not always have to be expensive – on the contrary simple household remedies are often sufficient.

But first we would like to answer the question of where these iridescent stains actually come from. The answer is quite simple: pans and pots are often to blame for the annoying stains. The reason for this is the copper and aluminum-containing alloys in our cooking utensils, which fuse wonderfully with the ceramic surface through friction. Even if it seems that the stains have formed underneath the glass surface and are therefore impossible to remove, we can reassure you – this is rarely the case!

As a rule, it is always important to clean the hotplates, whether ceramic or cast iron, immediately after use. This can be easily done with conventional cleaning agents and a sponge or cloth. However, the hob should have cooled down sufficiently by this time, otherwise there is a risk of burns!

If, for whatever reason, you didn’t get around to cleaning the hob in time, we have listed a few household remedies here that can help you clean your ceramic hob.

Lemon juice

For light stains, such as water or limescale stains, simple lemon juice is sufficient. To do this, drip a little of the juice onto a cloth and wipe over the stains as usual. Leave the juice to soak in for about 10 minutes, wipe with a little fresh water and then dry with a dry cloth. If you don’t have any lemon juice to hand, glass cleaner is also ideal for the whole procedure.

Baking powder

Baking soda is an excellent cleaning agent for more stubborn stains, such as burnt-on food. All you need for cleaning is half a packet of baking soda and a tablespoon of water. Rub the mixture onto the dirty areas and leave to soak for around 60-90 minutes. You can now simply wipe off the dried, dirty stains with a dry cloth. Finally, wipe over again with a damp cloth and rub everything dry.

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Cleaning the ceramic hob with toothpaste

If scratches have already formed on the ceramic surface, toothpaste can be helpful. The microparticles in the toothpaste smooth the edges of the scratches and make them disappear. All you need to do is rub a small amount of the cream onto the scratched areas with a cloth and then wipe the surface dry with the back of the cloth.

Cleaning stone and vinegar or soda

Now we come to the aforementioned metal streaks. These can be easily removed using a cleaning stone and vinegar or washing soda. The acid contained in the vinegar dissolves the metallic impurities after prolonged exposure, making it easier to remove the streaks. If you prefer to use washing soda instead, apply a small amount to the dirty areas and leave the soda to work for around 20 minutes. You can then wipe away the remaining dirt with a simple cloth. You should use so-called cleaning stones with care, as their use can lead to scratches. Suitable cleaning stones are mainly available in drugstores.

Effective prevention of stains

If all household remedies fail to clean your ceramic hob for some unknown reason, the only thing left to do is to reach for the chemical shelf. You can find suitable cleaning agents in any supermarket or drugstore. But before you get that far, here are a few helpful tips to prevent metallic streaks in advance:

• Never slide pots and pans over the hob. This not only saves you from stains, but also protects against scratches!
• Even if the temptation is too tempting – do not wash your pots and pans in the dishwasher! The dishwashing process encourages abrasion of the pots’ alloy, making it easier for it to get onto the hob during cooking.
• Avoid excessively hot, prolonged cooking temperatures. Instead, turn the temperature up once and then continue cooking at a lower temperature. Excessively high temperatures also promote the abrasion of the metallic alloys of the cooking utensils.

With these helpful tips, you now know how to clean your ceramic hob and remove unsightly metallic stains on the hob!

Source: ruhr24.de

Whether on the sink or in the kettle – limescale deposits occur mainly in the kitchen and bathroom. The white stains not only look unattractive, they are also extremely stubborn. What really helps against limescale and can it be removed with household remedies?

Removing limescale with household remedies

Two well-known household remedies have proven effective in getting rid of stubborn deposits: Vinegar and citric acid. The acid dissolves the limescale and it can then be easily wiped off. However, both household remedies have their advantages and disadvantages, which is why you should bear a few things in mind when using them.

1. remove limescale with vinegar

• The best way to remove limescale is to use household vinegar (5 percent acetic acid) or dilute vinegar essence (25 percent acetic acid) in a ratio of 1:5 with water.
• Place calcified shower heads, faucet aerators and sink faucets in a cup or bowl filled with vinegar. It will take some time until they are clean again and the limescale has dissolved.
• A kitchen towel soaked in vinegar helps with limescale deposits in the sink or at the transition between the sink and tap.
• You can also use vinegar to clean the kettle. Mix 2-3 tablespoons of vinegar essence with at least one liter of water and bring the mixture to the boil in the kettle. The kettle must then be thoroughly rinsed out.

Take care with seals and fittings

The acid contained in vinegar can attack rubber and plastic parts, such as seals. It is therefore better not to clean coffee machines with vinegar. The thin chrome layer on taps and other fittings can also be damaged by the vinegar.

Many people also find the pungent smell of vinegar unpleasant. When vinegar is boiled, it even produces corrosive vapors that should not be inhaled under any circumstances. Therefore, ensure adequate ventilation when working with vinegar and rinse all treated appliances and surfaces with water.

2. remove limescale with citric acid

Natural lemon juice contains between six and eight percent acid. However, pure citric acid (also known as citric acid) is usually used for descaling. You can buy it in powder form or in liquid form at the drugstore. This is how you use it for cleaning:

• Coffee machines: Dissolve two to three tablespoons of citric acid in one liter of water and run the mixture through the machine. Then rinse twice with clear water.
• Kettle: Dissolve two to three tablespoons of citric acid in one liter of water and heat the mixture directly in the kettle.
• Dishwasher: Sprinkle six tablespoons of citric acid into the empty dishwasher, avoiding the sieve. Select a program without a pre-rinse cycle at a minimum of 50 °C and run the machine through.
• Stainless steel, plastic, ceramic or chrome surfaces: Dissolve three tablespoons of citric acid in one liter of water and wipe the calcified surfaces with it.
• Washing machine: Mix six tablespoons of citric acid with half a liter of water and pour the mixture directly into the drum. Start a 60°C program without prewash and without textiles in the drum.
• Teapots, cups and coffee mugs: Depending on the size of the container, add half a tablespoon or a whole tablespoon of citric acid and fill with hot water. Leave to act briefly and then rinse with water.
• Shower heads and fittings: Dissolve one and a half tablespoons of citric acid in a quarter of a liter of water and immerse the calcified parts directly in the solution. A plastic bag can help with non-removable parts.

Although citric acid does not smell like lemon, it does not leave an unpleasant odor, unlike vinegar. It can also be used without hesitation to clean rubber or plastic parts and is very versatile. For particularly stubborn limescale, however, the exposure time is several hours. The same basic rule applies here: After cleaning, rinse with clean water.

Tip: Natural lemon juice (from a squeezed lemon, for example) can also be used for light calcification.

Removing ingrained limescale

Ingrained limescale can be a real challenge, as it often stubbornly clings to corners, fittings or the inside of appliances. To remove this limescale, you should use acidic cleaning agents – vinegar, citric acid or special limescale removers are particularly effective here. First, it is advisable to treat the affected surfaces generously with the cleaning agent and leave it to work for a few minutes so that the acid slowly softens the limescale.

You can then remove the limescale mechanically using a brush or sponge that is not too abrasive. For very stubborn deposits, it often helps to repeat the process or leave the cleaning agent to work overnight. Make sure you rinse thoroughly with water after cleaning to remove any acid residue that could attack the material. This will ensure that your fittings and surfaces are not only free of limescale, but also remain in optimum condition.

Correct procedure for sensitive materials

Before you declare war on limescale deposits in your household, it is best to try out the two household remedies on an inconspicuous area. Materials such as natural stone and marble generally do not tolerate acid and should be treated with other products. Vinegar is also not suitable for cleaning copper and aluminum.

Vinegar and citric acid have proven to be particularly effective in removing limescale. Would you still prefer to experiment or try something new? Then try toothpaste, cola, a paste made from baking powder and water or baking paper.

Attention: Caution is advised when cleaning with acids. In the event that your hands come into contact with the cleaning water, you should wear rubber gloves if possible. Avoid getting acid in your eyes at all costs.

Source: ndr
Preview image: ©Leonsbox via Getty Images

Sometimes the week goes differently than planned and the fresh broccoli is left in the fridge. Instead of throwing it away, you can freeze broccoli and use it later. If it is already wilted, it is still suitable for a vegetable stock – inedible leftovers belong in the organic waste garbage can.

Freeze raw broccoli correctly

If you Freeze broccoli raw you should follow a few important steps to preserve the quality and nutritional value. Firstly, it is important to select fresh and firm broccoli with no signs of spoilage. Wash it thoroughly under cold water and divide it into equal florets.

Blanching is recommended before freezing: Immerse the florets in boiling water for two to three minutes and then immediately transfer them to ice-cold water to stop the cooking process. This step inactivates enzymes that can otherwise lead to loss of quality such as discoloration, poor taste and nutrient degradation. Then dry the broccoli thoroughly with kitchen paper or in a salad spinner.

It is best to freeze the florets individually on a baking tray before transferring them to airtight freezer bags or containers to prevent them from sticking together. Label the packaging with the freezing date; frozen broccoli will keep in the freezer for around 10-12 months. Note that the broccoli will be slightly softer after defrosting and is therefore particularly suitable for cooked dishes, less so for raw food.

Preserving broccoli: Other options

In addition to freezing, you can also preserve broccoli in other ways. One method is the pickling in vinegar or fermenting – not only keeps longer, but also develops new flavors.

Alternatively, you can boil broccoli after blanching: Filled in sterilized jars and sealed airtight, it will keep for several months. Make sure to maintain a constant temperature in the freezer or pantry to preserve the quality.

Nutrients in the freezing process

Freezing preserves many vitamins and mineralswhich make broccoli so healthy. Vitamin C is largely retained, but slight losses can occur with water-soluble vitamins – especially during long storage or temperature fluctuations.

Other vegetables such as Peas, carrots or spinach can be frozen without any problems. Frozen vegetables remain a valuable addition to your diet, especially when fresh produce is not available.

Checklist: Freezing broccoli made easy

Prepare: Cut the florets from the stalk, wash thoroughly and drain
Blanch: Two to three minutes in boiling water, then quench in ice water
Dry: Drain well or pat dry to avoid ice crystals
Pre-freeze: Pre-freeze the florets individually on a tray so that they do not stick together
Pack airtight: Fill into freezer bags or tins and seal well
Label: Note the freezing date – Shelf life: up to 12 months
Use: Use directly for soups, casseroles or wok dishes without defrosting

_{This article was partly created with the help of a machine and carefully checked by the editorial team before publication.}

The Thermomix brought high-tech to the kitchen. For a long time, the Vorwerk food processor was regarded as the absolute top dog in its field. Even entire cookbook series were adapted to the all-rounder.

In the meantime, however, the competition has caught up. At the forefront: the Cookit from Bosch. But can the Cookit beat the classic Thermomix?

Thermomix TM6 or Bosch Cookit?

Of course, not everyone can relate to the concept of “high-tech cooking”. But for more and more people, all-round kitchen appliances such as the Thermomix are making everyday life much easier. Beginners in particular enjoy the simple step-by-step instructions that guarantee successful cooking results.

But which food processor should you choose? The individual models all have their advantages and disadvantages. Let’s take a look at two of the market leaders: the Thermomix from Vorwerk and the Cookit from Bosch.

Both appliances are based on engineering skills made in Germany. The basic principle is also similar: both the Thermomix and the Cookit can bake, boil, steam, chop vegetables, puree and so on. The entire cooking process can be monitored and controlled via an app. It’s like being a child again and having your mother tell you what to do next. You no longer have to think and can just look forward to the food.

Another thing you can look forward to: bowls and accessories can be put in the dishwasher after use with both the Thermomix and the Cookit. So you don’t have to wash up by hand after cooking. But what are the differences between the Thermomix and Cookit?

Bosch Cookit and Thermomix TM6: These are the key differences

Let’s get straight to the point – the Bosch Cookit is ahead in many respects:

• The Cookit has a larger pot than the Thermomix, which also makes it suitable for large families or guests. The disadvantage: the pot is also heavier as a result. Not for people with arthritis.
• Also with the Accessories Bosch is more generous. In addition to the knife and whisk, which the Thermomix also has, the Cookit also comes with two slicing discs and another whisk. This enables the Cookit to not only somehow reduce the size of the vegetables, but also to dice, slice or grate them. The disadvantage is that you have to change the attachments more often than with the Thermomix.
• A major weakness of the old Themomix generations was that you could not fry could. This is now possible with the TM6 – but only up to a maximum of 160 °C and only if you have a subscription for just under 50 euros a year. The Cookit from Bosch can reach 200 °C – without a subscription.
• Only with a subscription is the Thermomix also available with the Guided Cooking offers – i.e. guided cooking. This function is included with Cookit. However, the Cookit also has a much smaller selection of recipes. The classic from Vorwerk has an enormous advantage here!
• Further advantages of the Thermomix: You can use it to Grind coffee and grain. You can also save your own recipes in the Thermomix and create your own individual weekly plan create an individual weekly plan.
• On the subject of susceptibility to repair opinions differ: some praise the Thermomix for the fact that its motor is practically wear-free. Others criticize the sensitive display, for which Vorwerk does not provide a warranty.

Apart from all the details in which the Bosch Cookit is ahead of the Thermomix TM6, the biggest shortcoming of the Thermomix is the de facto obligation to take out a subscription. After all, if you’re already spending a lot of money on a food processor, you want to be able to use all the functions – and not have to fork out an extra 48 euros a year, right? If, on the other hand, you like freshly ground coffee and prefer to cook on the fly anyway, you will probably be better off with the Thermomix.

The facts at a glance:

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Conclusion: Is the Cookit really better?

Anyone who enjoys high-tech cooking will be very well served by both appliances. Both are in the upper price segment, but deliver solid results.

The Thermomix TM6 from Vorwerk still has a clear lead when it comes to recipe selection. But how long will it last? After all, Bosch promises to add 30 new recipes every week. In terms of accessories, cooking results, variability and customer friendliness, however, the Bosch Cookit is – in our opinion – already clearly in first place.

Sources: please.buy, magazin.kuechenfinder

Have you bought too many strawberries and can’t manage to eat them all fresh? No problem: drying strawberries is an easy way to preserve the fruit and intensify its flavor. Whether as a snack, in muesli or in baked goods – dried strawberries give you a fruity taste experience even in the colder months of the year.

Drying strawberries – step by step

At the Drying the strawberries The water is removed from the strawberries, making them keep longer. At the same time, many nutrients such as Vitamin C and antioxidants are preserved. There are a few things you should bear in mind to ensure perfect results:

• Preparation: Choose firm, ripe strawberries and wash them thoroughly. Remove the stalk and leaves and cut the fruit into slices. even slices (about 3-5 mm thick) so that they dry evenly.

Three drying methods:

1. Oven: Place the slices on a baking tray with baking paper or a rack. Dry them at 50-60 °C for 6-8 hours. Leave the door ajar to allow the moisture to escape.
2. Dehydrator: An energy-saving alternative that offers constant temperatures. Lay out the strawberries in thin layers and dry them according to the appliance’s instructions.
3. Air drying: This method is particularly gentle, but time-consuming. Place the strawberries on a cloth or grid and place them in a sunny, well-ventilated place. Protect them from insects with a fine net. Drying takes several days.

The strawberries are ready when they are dry, but still slightly pliable are.

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How to store dried strawberries properly

Correct storage is crucial so that dried strawberries keep for a long time. Store them in airtight containers such as screw-top jars or vacuum-packed bags to keep out moisture. Store the containers in a cool, dark placeto protect the aroma.

Label the containers with the drying date so that you can keep track. If the strawberries start to absorb moisture after a while, you can place them briefly in the Dry them in the ovento extend their shelf life.

Ideas for using dried strawberries

Dried strawberries are versatile and make an excellent topping for muesli, yogurt or porridge. In baked goods such as muffins or cookies they provide a fruity note that goes perfectly with sweet dishes.

Grind the dried fruit to a fine powder. Strawberry powder – ideal for adding flavor to desserts, smoothies or homemade ice cream. Also in Tea blends Dried strawberries make an excellent addition to tea blends. Combine them with herbs such as mint or lemon balm for a fruity, fresh tea.

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Durable and aromatic

Make more of your strawberries with dried strawberries favorite fruits. They are not only durable and space-saving, but also versatile – whether in savory or sweet dishes. Thanks to simple drying methods, you can preserve their intense aroma for a long time and try out creative recipes.

Checklist: Drying strawberries made easy

• Preparation: Wash the strawberries, remove the stalk and cut into even slices.
• Drying methods: Choose between oven, dehydrator or air drying.
• Storage: Store airtight and dark in screw-top jars or bags.
• Use: Perfect for muesli, baked goods, tea or as a powder for desserts.
• Tip: Remove moisture by briefly drying in the oven.

_{This article was partly created with the help of a machine and carefully checked by the editorial team before publication.}

Parsley is a versatile herb that almost always cuts a fine figure in the kitchen. But what to do if you have a surplus? Drying parsley is one way of preserving it for longer. Although dried parsley is not quite as aromatic as the fresh variety, you can get the best out of it with the right method.

How to dry parsley properly

Before drying, you should Parsley Wash thoroughly and carefully pat dry with a kitchen towel. Clean and dry herbs prevent mold growth and ensure a better result.

• Air dry: Tie the stems small bundles together and hang them upside down on a shady, airy place in a shady, airy place. Alternatively, you can spread the leaves out individually on a clean kitchen towel. After about one week the leaves have dried and rustle when touched.
• Oven: Lay the leaves flat on a baking sheet and dry them at maximum 50 degrees Celsius. Leave the oven door ajar to allow the moisture to escape. After about two hours the parsley is ready to be dried. This method is quicker, but requires more attention so as not to overheat the leaves.

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How to preserve the aroma

So that the dried parsley retains its aroma for as long as possible, correct storage is crucial. Fill the leaves in airtight containerssuch as screw-top jars or metal cans to protect them from light and oxygen.

Store the containers in a dark, cool placeas light and heat can affect the aroma. Chop the leaves just before use to preserve the essential oils and aromas for as long as possible.

Even if dried parsley does not taste quite as intense as fresh parsley, it has one major advantage: it is can be kept for months and always ready to hand when you need it.

Alternative: Freeze parsley

If you like the fresh taste of parsley freezing is a great alternative. Finely chop the leaves and fill them into freezer bags or Ice cube tray. You can also freeze them with a little water or oil to make them last longer while preserving their flavor and valuable nutrients.

Ideas for using dried parsley

Parsley loses some of its essential oils and freshness when it is dried. Instead, it develops a slightly bitter, more intense Aroma that develops particularly well in warm dishes.

• Soups and sauces: Dried parsley is ideal for seasoning soups, sauces and stews.
• Potato dishes: It also adds a spicy accent to gratins, roast potatoes or mashed potatoes.
• Herb salt and spice mixes: Mix dried parsley with salt or other herbs for practical seasoning mixes.

For cold dishes such as salads, however, dried parsley is less suitable as it lacks the fresh aroma. In these cases, the frozen version is the better choice.

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Conclusion: Versatile and durable

Whether fresh, dried or frozen – parsley is a great addition to any form add a special touch to your kitchen. Drying is an easy and practical way to preserve it for longer, especially for hot dishes. An even more aromatic alternative is to freeze it to preserve the freshness of the herb and have access to flavorful parsley at all times.

Checklist: Drying parsley made easy

• Preparation: Wash and thoroughly dry the parsley.
• Drying methods: Air dry in a shady place or in the oven at max. 50 degrees.
• Storage: Store in airtight jars or tins in a cool, dark place.
• Added value: Ideal for soups, sauces or herbal salts – aromatic and versatile.
• Alternative: Freeze parsley to preserve the fresh taste.

_{This article was created partly with the help of a machine and carefully checked by the editorial team before publication.}

When it comes to washing, nothing is more annoying than washed-out colors, faded favorite shirts or discoloration from leaking textiles. However, with the right washing technique, your colorful garments will stay fresh and colorful for longer. While washing whites is relatively straightforward, there are a few things to bear in mind when washing colored laundry. Here you can find out how to properly care for your colored textiles and preserve their colors for a long time.

Washing colored laundry: sorting first

Before you fill the washing machine, you should sort your colored laundry carefully. First, sort them by color: Dark colors such as black, dark blue or dark green in one group, medium shades such as red, light blue or green in another and light shades in a third. New, intensely colored textiles in particular should be washed separately at first, as they often release color.

Check the care labels before washing. Not all brightly colored garments can be washed at the same temperatures. Delicate materials such as silk or viscose require special care and should not be washed together with more robust fabrics such as cotton.

Turn your clothes inside out before washing. This protects the outer, visible side from abrasion and direct contact with detergent, keeping colors bright for longer. For pants, close the zippers and buttons to minimize friction.

The right temperature and the right detergent

For colored laundry, less is more – both in terms of temperature and detergent. Most colored textiles retain their color intensity the longest if they are washed at low temperatures. 30 °C is perfectly sufficient for normally soiled colored laundry and is gentle on the colors. For heavier soiling, you can increase the temperature to 40 °C, but you should not go above this.

Use a special color detergent that is formulated without optical brighteners and bleaching agents. These ingredients, which are contained in heavy-duty detergents, can attack and fade colors. Liquid detergents are often more suitable for colored laundry than powders, as they dissolve well even at low temperatures and leave no residue.

Use the detergent sparingly – too much detergent can build up in the fibers, making the colors look dull. Follow the dosage instructions on the packaging and take into account the degree of soiling and the water hardness in your region.

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Gentle washing programs and helpful additives

If possible, choose a gentle or easy-care program with a reduced spin speed. This reduces the mechanical load on the textiles and protects the colors. An additional rinse cycle can help to completely remove detergent residues that could otherwise damage the colors.

For particularly valuable or intensely colored garments, a color fixer added to the wash water can help. These products seal the colors and prevent bleeding. A dash of vinegar in the last rinse (approx. 50 ml) can also refresh and fix the colors.

You can do without fabric softener

Do not use fabric softener on sportswear and functional clothing, as it can impair the special properties of these textiles. It can be used sparingly for normal colored laundry, but fabric softeners can also leave a film on the fibers over time, which makes the colors appear duller.

Proper care of your colored laundry begins with sorting and ends with drying – preferably in the shade, as direct sunlight can fade the colors. With these simple tips, your favorite colorful pieces will stay bright and vibrant for longer – for an outfit that looks just as colorful as it did on day one.

Source: Süddeutsche

Have you bought more fresh spinach leaves than you can use in the next few days? No problem: you can freeze spinach leaves and enjoy them for several months. This is a practical solution to avoid food waste, especially if you have large quantities.

How to freeze spinach leaves properly

Leaf spinach is easy to freeze – as long as you prepare it correctly. Wash the leaves thoroughly, as soil and sand often collect between the stems. Remove any wilted or damaged parts and drain the spinach well.

This is important BlanchingPlace the spinach in boiling water for about 30 seconds and then immediately rinse in ice water. This preserves the bright green color and many heat-sensitive vitamins such as folic acid. Then leave to dry well – preferably on a kitchen towel.

You can then dry the spinach in portions into freezer bags or containers in portions. This means you always have exactly the right amount to hand when cooking later – without leftovers.

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Practical tips for perfect durability

For space-saving freezing, it is advisable to freeze the spinach flat in the containers in the containers. This makes it easier to stack in the freezer and remove individual portions later. Label the packaging with the freezing date to keep track at all times.

Leaf spinach stays in the freezer for about six to eight months in good quality. After that, the consistency may change slightly, but the spinach can still be used. An alternative is to puree the blanched spinach and freeze it in small portions – ideal for smoothies, soups or sauces.

What actually happens to the nutrients when freezing?

Contrary to common assumptions, many nutrients are lost during freezing. vitamins and minerals are well preserved. Particularly sensitive nutrients such as folic acid and vitamin C survive the process surprisingly well if the spinach has been blanched before freezing.

The same applies to other vegetables such as broccoli, peas or beans. Less suitable are water-rich vegetables such as cucumbers or tomatoes, as they lose their structure after defrosting. With the right preparation, your stock remains nutritious and can be used flexibly.

Checklist: Freezing spinach leaves made easy

• Wash and prepare: Clean spinach thoroughly, sort out bad leaves and drain well
• Blanch: Place in boiling water for approx. 30 seconds, then quench in ice water
• Dry: After blanching, drain completely and leave to dry on a cloth or sieve
• Portioning: Fill in small quantities in freezer bags or tins – pressing flat saves space
• Label: Note the date – spinach leaves can be kept frozen for up to 8 months
• Use: Ideal for pasta, quiche, soups or smoothies – straight from the freezer or slightly thawed

_{This article was partly produced with machine assistance and carefully checked by the editorial team before publication.}