Washing, Selecting, and Nutritional Value of Strawberries
When washing strawberries, it is important to note that their surface is uneven, which can easily hide dirt and grime, and the skin is fragile, requiring gentle handling. The correct washing method is to keep the strawberry stems intact and rinse them under running tap water to reduce pesticide penetration. After rinsing, strawberries can be soaked in a mild saltwater solution or rice washing water for about five minutes to eliminate microorganisms. Avoid using detergents, as they may leave residues. If rice washing water is not available, a homemade water-starch solution can be used to soak the strawberries for 10-15 minutes, gently stirring to prevent sedimentation. Adding a few drops of white vinegar during washing can effectively remove preservatives.
Selecting delicious strawberries requires skill: look for those with a natural heart shape, evenly bright color, and small seeds that are golden yellow. Avoid purchasing strawberries that have odd shapes or a clear color divide at the bottom stem, as these may result from improper hormone use. In terms of texture, choose firm strawberries rather than those that are overly soft or too large; those with fine fuzz on the surface are even better. A good choice will also have a natural strawberry fragrance and evenly distributed sweetness. Additionally, strawberries should not be too heavy; those of moderate weight are usually more delicious.
Strawberries are highly nutritious, with a rich vitamin C content that far exceeds many common fruits, such as watermelon, grapes, and apples. They also contain iron, fructose, glucose, and citric acid, which can help alleviate lung heat coughs and sore throats, and are beneficial for preventing anemia, making them a healthy fruit suitable for sharing among the whole family. Strawberries have balanced nutrition and are easily absorbed by the human body, making them an ideal daily snack.
