How to Store Rutabaga

TL;DR

• Smaller rutabagas (2-3 inches) tend to be more tender and may have a milder flavor.
• Root cellars provide ideal long-term storage conditions: 32-40°F, dark, and 90-95% humidity.
• Proper preparation for root cellar storage includes brushing off dirt and trimming leaves.
• Freezing is an effective method for long-term preservation, maintaining quality for up to 10 months.
• Rutabagas can be safely canned using a boiling water bath method.
• Proper food safety practices are crucial when handling and storing rutabagas.

Introduction

Rutabagas, those hearty, earthy root vegetables, are a delicious addition to many fall and winter dishes. But have you ever found yourself with a bumper crop of rutabagas and wondered how to keep them fresh for as long as possible?

In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of storing rutabagas to ensure they stay fresh and flavorful for as long as possible. We’ll cover the best storage methods, ideal conditions, and food safety practices to help you make the most of your rutabaga harvest.

Preparing Rutabagas for Storage

Selecting and Inspecting Rutabagas

The first step in storing rutabagas is to choose the best ones. Look for firm, heavy rutabagas without any soft spots, cracks, or excessive dirt. Smaller rutabagas (around 2-3 inches in diameter) tend to be more tender and may have a milder or sweeter flavor compared to larger rutabagas (Source1, Source2).

Inspect each rutabaga carefully for any signs of damage or decay, which could lead to spoilage during storage. Avoid rutabagas with mold, deep cuts, or bruising.

Washing and Cleaning Rutabagas

Once you’ve selected your rutabagas, it’s time to clean them up. Gently brush off any excess dirt from the surface. Then, wash them thoroughly under cool running water, scrubbing with a vegetable brush to remove any remaining dirt or debris.

Pat the rutabagas dry with a clean towel or let them air dry completely before storing. Moisture can lead to mold growth, so make sure they’re fully dry.

Storage Methods

Refrigerator Storage

The easiest way to store rutabagas is in your refrigerator. Place unwashed, dry rutabagas in a plastic bag with ventilation holes or a perforated plastic bag. Store them in the crisper drawer of your fridge, where they can last up to 2 weeks.

Check on your rutabagas periodically and remove any that show signs of decay. One bad rutabaga can spoil the whole bunch!

Root Cellar Storage

If you’re lucky enough to have a root cellar, rutabagas will feel right at home there. A cool (32-40°F), dark, and humid (90-95% humidity) root cellar provides the ideal conditions for long-term rutabaga storage (Source12, Source13, Source14, Source15).

To prep rutabagas for root cellar storage, brush off any dirt and trim the leaves, leaving about a 1-inch stem. The outer layer of leaves can be cut to an inch above the crown (Source4, Source5). Place them in a single layer on a shelf or in a ventilated container, ensuring they don’t touch each other. With proper conditions, rutabagas can last up to 4 months in a root cellar (Source3).

In-Ground Storage

In areas with cool winters, you can leave rutabagas right in the ground and harvest them as needed. To protect the plants from extreme cold, cover them with a thick layer of mulch, such as straw or leaves.

Harvest your rutabagas before the ground freezes solid. For extended in-ground storage, you can also cover the plants with a low tunnel or row cover.

Preserving Rutabagas

Freezing Rutabagas

If you want to enjoy rutabagas year-round, freezing is your best bet (Source8). There are two main methods for freezing rutabagas:

1. Blanch cubed rutabagas in boiling water for 3 minutes, then cool them in an ice bath (Source6, Source7). Drain well and pack into freezer bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.

2. Cook and mash rutabagas, then portion into freezer-safe containers, leaving some headspace for expansion.

Frozen rutabagas can maintain best quality for up to 10 months, but will remain safe beyond that time (Source8).

Other Preservation Methods

While freezing is the most reliable method for preserving rutabagas, you might be wondering about other options. Rutabagas, with a pH around 4.6, can be safely canned in a boiling water bath without the risk of bacterial growth (Source11).

Pickling or fermenting rutabagas is possible, but keep in mind that these methods may result in a soft texture and altered flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, give it a try, but don’t expect the same results as fresh or frozen rutabagas.

Food Safety and Handling

As with any produce, food safety is crucial when handling rutabagas. Follow these tips to keep your rutabagas safe to eat:

• Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling rutabagas
• Use clean cutting boards and utensils to avoid cross-contamination
• Store rutabagas away from strong-smelling foods, as they can absorb odors
• Discard any rutabagas that show signs of mold, decay, or off-odors

Conclusion

Rutabagas may not be the most glamorous vegetable, but with proper storage and handling, they can be a delicious and nutritious addition to your meals for months after harvest.

Remember to select the best rutabagas, clean and dry them thoroughly, and choose the storage method that works best for your household and climate. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques to find your perfect rutabaga storage solution.

Now that you’re armed with this knowledge, go forth and enjoy those tasty, versatile rutabagas to your heart’s content! Your taste buds (and your root cellar) will thank you.