Charcuterie is one of the most delicious experiences in French cuisine. The delicate flavors, contrast of textures and artistic presentation make this an unbeatable treat. But how do you make this delight last longer? Whether it’s sausages, pâtés, hams, terrines, rillettes or galantines, here are some tips for storing your favorite cold cuts and enjoying them all year round!
Whole deli meats: put them in the cellar.
The best way to store whole deli meats is to keep them in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place. The ideal temperature for storing whole deli meats is between 2 and 4°C, with relative humidity not exceeding 75%. This environment should be free of direct sunlight and away from heat sources such as ovens and radiators. It is important to keep the area free of insects or other pests that could contaminate food. For example, it’s best to avoid storing deli meats near animal feed or in areas where rodents might be present.
When storing whole deli meats, it is essential to protect them from moisture and air. Wrapping them in butcher paper or cheesecloth can help protect them from oxidizing and drying out. Also, a small sachet of silica gel nearby can help absorb excess moisture from the atmosphere when stored in high humidity climates.
It is also essential to hang large sausages or cured hams from the ceiling using a rope or string so that they do not touch each other – this prevents cross-contamination and better preserves the flavor over time. Finally, be sure to always slice deli meats before using them, which keeps them fresh longer.
What about chunks of charcuterie from the butcher?
The best way to store butcher cuts is to place them in the coldest part of your fridge. This allows the meat to retain its freshness and flavor for a longer period of time. If possible, it is best to wrap the deli pieces in a cloth or vacuum pack them using a specialized machine. These steps make it possible to better preserve the quality of the charcuterie and protect it from oxidation due to contact with air. It is also helpful to store the pieces in an airtight container. It is also important to consume them within three to five days of purchase for optimal results.
If you need to store your deli meats for a longer period of time, remember to freeze them properly. This means wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap or an airtight container before placing them in the freezer. This helps prevent moisture and bacteria from entering the stored food, preserving its flavor and texture. Labeling packages with the date of purchase can also be a great help in tracking their freshness. Proper storage will ensure you have delicious meat when you need it!
It is best to leave vacuum-packed cold cuts in their own packaging.
The best way to store vacuum-packed deli meats is to keep them in their original packaging until the expiration date. This preserves the flavor and quality of the products and prevents the proliferation of bacteria. It’s also a good idea to check the packaging for signs of poor sealing or punctures, as this can make your food vulnerable to contamination.
After opening, it is recommended to wrap them tightly with aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container before refrigerating, as this will retain the flavors and limit moisture loss. Also, you should always place fresh deli meats on a separate shelf from cooked meats to avoid cross-contamination and ensure food safety. Be sure to label your containers with the date they were opened so you know how long they have been stored. Finally, if you are storing them for more than five days, it is recommended that you freeze them instead of refrigerating them.
