How to Select Grapes

by Mary Ann Romans | More from this Blogger

14 Aug 2007 09:06 AM

Mmmm grapes. Nature's candy. Grapes are one thing that I don't have to beg my children to eat them out of hand. And, they are also wonderful in fruit salads, chicken salads, and of course, traditional leafy salads.

But some grapes can be, well, less than desirable. Do you know how to select the best grapes? Do you want a quick, easy refresher? Read on to find out some great tips about selecting wonderful grapes at the store.

First, you should decide what type of grapes you would like. Yes, some are seeded and other seedless, but there are three very basic varieties: Green (usually available all year), Red (usually ultra sweet and great in salads), or black (exotic and not always available. They generally have a mild flavor).

When choosing grapes, the first thing to do is to check the stem. The greener the stem, the fresher the grapes. Dry, brittle brown steps have the oldest grapes on them.

Next, take a look at the grapes themselves. Avoid any that are moldy, bruised or broken. it is mazing how many people assume that a few rotten grapes is normal in the bunch. But, that is not true. You should expect better! Why pay for grapes you can't use. And wet, broken or smashed grapes are a breeding ground for fungus. And fungus can spread quickly.

The best way to store your perfect grapes when you get home is to leave them in the vented bag that they came in, and then store them in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. I like to have them washed first, so the kids can just easily grab the grapes for snacks. So i wash them in a small strainer bowl, drain them, and then place them bowl and all into the crisper drawer.

Related Articles:

Choosing The Best Tomatoes

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Selecting The Right Avocado

How to Select Mushrooms

How to Choose Cherries

Learn more about Mary Ann Romans

Mary Ann Romans is a freelance writer, wife and mother of three children. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband, the kids and a 16-pound cat.

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