Contest| "Tools to Spark Culinary Inspiration #6

• What do you understand by food preservation?

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Throughout history, we have encountered different methods of storing perishable food items for survival. Food preservation has made our lives easier by reducing meal preparation time. It allows us to store food when there is an excess supply and use it during a scarce period. There are various food preservation methods used by our ancestors:

• Sun Drying - This is a commonly used method to preserve fruits, vegetables, fish, and spices. The hot tropical climate made it an effective method for removing moisture and reducing bacterial growth in food.

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• Smoking - This method was commonly used in ancient homes to store dried fish or meat. It enhances and gives a unique taste while slowing down the growth of microorganisms and protecting the food from insects.

• Fermentation - The most famous Sri Lankan toddy and vinegar is made by fermenting coconut water.

• Pickling - "Acharu" It's mouthwatering even when I remember. Pickles are our favorite method of preserving vegetables and fruits. We add vinegar, salt, and other spices to store fruits and vegetables in a glass jar, which could be used for months. And it even tastes better the longer it is stored.

• Salting or Curing - It is another method that we often use to reduce the growth of bacteria in food. Salt helps to absorb the moisture in food, slowing down the spoilage process of perishable foods.

• Cooling in Earthen Pots – This is an ancient method used to preserve food when refrigerators did not exist. They used to store food inside earthen pots and bury them underground to keep food cooler and fresh for a longer period.

• Explain 5 ways of preserving food.

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I have seen that different methods are used around the world. Five food-preserving methods that I commonly use in my household are:

1. Use vinegar during food preparation - Especially when cooking fish or meat. "Fish Ambul Thiyal" is a famous Sri Lankan dish that is specially made to be preserved for a longer period.

2. Frying and storing in glass Jars - Mixtures like fried onions, chili flakes, garlic, and dried fish can be stored in glass jars to increase their shelf life.

3. Storing herbs like coriander leaves - These can be stored for a longer period by covering the roots with water and placing a polythene bag over the leaves before refrigerating. The same method can be used for limes and Onions. We can also store them in glass jars adding water and then refrigerate them, allowing them to be preserved for months.

4. Fish and meat can be preserved by freezing or canning - It's an effective method to preserve meats for long-term usage. I normally use a few drops of lemon or garcinia cambogia paste and salt before deep freezing the meat. This method has made it a safer way to consume meat.

5. We often use fish and vegetables that are sun-dried - they have a unique taste and can be kept for extended periods under proper storage. Being a tropical country, we have the luxury of various seasonal fruits such as jackfruit and breadfruit. When there is excess amount, we dry them in the sun to preserve them for future use.

• Let us know the best way of preserving perishable foods.

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The best and easiest way to preserve perishable foods is by freezing or storing them in the refrigerator. I think it is more effective and the chances of bacterial growth are low compared to other methods.

• People say eating freshly cooked food is better than eating preserved food. What's your opinion on this?

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It's true, and It's always better to have fresh meals rather than preserved food. However, with tight schedules, people tend to find easier ways to simplify living. I believe a little commitment to making fresh meals will help to keep the doctor away because consuming preserved foods daily may bring high health risks. While preserved meals can reduce the kitchen mess, in the long term, we might realize we have made a great mistake. I always prefer making fresh meals and rarely store foods in the refrigerator or use preserved foods. Even If I do, I make sure to use it within a few days.

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I appreciate @ninapenda's effort in organizing an interesting contest on this topic. It's true that when it comes to food-related topics, we have so many ideas to share, and as a community of ladies such topics make it even more engaging. I request @pecintabunga20, @asiahaiss, and @pretty-precious to participate in the contest.

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