Yes, you can keep apples in water, especially sliced apples, as an effective method to prevent browning and maintain their freshness for a short period. This technique is particularly convenient for prepped apples intended for consumption within a few hours.
Why Submerge Sliced Apples in Water?
Submerging sliced apples in water helps to create a barrier that prevents oxygen from reaching the fruit's surface. Exposure to oxygen is the primary cause of enzymatic browning, which turns sliced apples an unappetizing brown color. Keeping them submerged ensures they stay crisp and visually appealing until you're ready to eat them.
How to Store Sliced Apples in Water
According to practical methods, keeping sliced apples in water is an incredibly simple and efficient strategy, especially for busy mornings. It requires minimal effort and no special preparation.
Here's how to do it:
- Slice the Apples: Prepare your apples by slicing them into your desired size and shape.
- Submerge in Tap Water: Place the sliced apple pieces into a container and completely submerge them in regular tap water.
- Choose a Container:
- A lidded container works well for easy storage.
- Alternatively, a sealed baggie (like a Ziploc bag) can also be used, ensuring all air is expelled before sealing to keep apples submerged.
- Store at Room Temperature: The apples can be stored at room temperature without issue for this short-term method. There's no need for refrigeration when preparing them in the morning to be eaten at lunch.
- No Pre-soaking or Rinsing Needed: This method is straightforward; you don't need to pre-soak the apples in anything other than tap water, nor do they require rinsing before submersion.
This technique is ideal if you're slicing apples in the morning to be enjoyed at lunch, providing a fresh and unbrowned snack without extra steps.
