Many families store some dried kelp, not planning to eat it right away. Some people believe that, like other seafood, it can be stored for a long time.
1. Kelp is not suitable for long-term storage
After buying kelp, it should be consumed as soon as possible. If you cannot finish it, the opened kelp should be refrigerated in a refrigerator or freezer. This is because, during storage, factors like temperature and light can degrade its nutritional value. Conversely, microorganisms will continue to multiply, and harmful substances will also increase. These factors can cause the kelp to spoil and become inedible.
2. Soaking before eating
When eating kelp, it should be cleaned and then soaked in water according to the actual situation, with the water being changed frequently. Generally, it should be soaked for more than 6 hours. If the kelp becomes limp and loses its toughness after soaking, as if it has been overcooked, it has already spoiled and should not be eaten.
◆ Tips for softening kelp
Method 1: Soak the dried kelp in rice washing water, or add a small amount of edible alkali or baking soda when boiling it. Do not add too much. After it becomes soft, soak the kelp in cold water, clean it, and then it is ready to eat.
Method 2: Loosen the clump of dried kelp and steam it in a steamer for about half an hour. Then, soak it in clean water overnight.