Does Lemon Balm Go Bad?

Lemon balm is a popular plant all around the globe. It is a member of the mint family. When discussing green veggies, lemon balm should be mentioned. In Asia, it is used in a variety of cuisines and pastes. People like using lemon balm to enhance the flavor of their food.

But have you ever wondered whether lemon balm goes bad? Lemon balm, like spinach and other leafy and green crops, will go bad when its shelf life is over. If you don’t know anything about lemon balm, this article will teach you all you need to know.

How to Store Lemon Balm?

All vegetable enthusiasts want their veggies to remain fresh for an extended period of time. People who adore lemon balm will never want for it to go bad. However, if it is not properly stored, it will spoil soon. As a result, storage is critical for every food product.

If you purchased too much lemon balm and want to keep it for a long time, you may be wondering how to store it. This article will describe the storage rules and other crucial aspects of lemon balm. The following are some storage guidelines:

Wash them properly

When you purchase lemon balm, the first thing you should do when you get it home is wash it well. Because the leaves of lemon balm are coated with muck and dust, you need thoroughly clean them. Otherwise, the dirt will degrade the lemon balm’s flavor and freshness. Lemon balm that has been washed will keep for a long time.

Store in plastic bags

After thoroughly cleaning your lemon balm, put it in plastic bags or airtight containers. The lemon balm will be protected from dust and debris in the sealed containers. As a consequence, it will remain fresh for an extended period of time.

Store in the fridge

Do not leave the lemon balm out at room temperature for too long. High temperatures degrade the quality of lemon balm. The leaves dry, and you will no longer utilize them after they have dried. The fridge is the ideal cold and tranquil environment for lemon balm to keep fresh and endure for a long time.

Store in the freezer

Lemon balm may be kept in the freezer for lengthy periods of time. Lemon balm has a longer shelf life when frozen. If you purchased too much lemon balm and want to keep it for a long period, put it in the freezer.

Can You Freeze Lemon Balm?

As previously stated, lemon balm may be stored in the freezer for extended periods of time. Lemon balm may be frozen in a variety of ways. You may also store a large amount of it in the freezer.

Chopped lemon balm may also be kept in the freezer. Transfer it first into freezer bags or airtight containers before storing it in the freezer. Lemon balm can keep in the freezer for months.

How Long Does Lemon Balm Last?

Lemon balm has a long shelf life. It does not spoil soon. Furthermore, if properly stored, it will not spoil soon. Lemon balm’s shelf life is also affected by its storage conditions. It will last longer if properly kept.

Lemon balm may be stored at room temperature for almost a week. If you are not going to use it within a week, keep it in the fridge. In the fridge, it may keep its optimum quality and freshness for about six months.

However, if you keep it in the freezer, it will survive for over eight months. The freezer’s cool atmosphere keeps the lemon balm from going bad and protects its flavor, quality, and freshness.

How to Tell If Lemon Balm Is Bad?

When we inspect a product to determine its quality, we look for several typical indicators of deterioration. Similarly, to determine if lemon balm is fresh or not, we must look for symptoms of decomposition. When lemon balm turns bad, the flavor, color, and fragrance change.

To determine if your lemon balm is rotten, look for the following signs:

• Examine the surface of the leaves for mold or black patches. If you come across any, throw them away right away.
• If the lemon balm leaves get softer or mushier, it is preferable to remove them immediately.
• Examine the aroma of the lemon balm. If it smells awful, it is useless. One of the most prevalent characteristics of rotting vegetables is a bad odor.

What does Lemon Balm Look Like?

The leaves of Lemon Balm are pale green. The form of its leaves is similar to that of mint. The plant becomes a bit bushy as it grows. The Lemon Balm plant may grow to be approximately 100 cm tall. While its heart-shaped leaves may grow from 2 to 8 cm in length. They have a somewhat rough feel.

They have a hairy texture and scalloped edges. Furthermore, the shrub is covered with little blooms. These blooms are either white, light pink, or yellow. The blooms attract a lot of bees and other insects because of their vibrant hue.

Where does Lemon Balm Come From?

Lemon Balm is botanically derived from a mint family tree. The leaves of this tree are utilized for a variety of purposes, including tea. Furthermore, the plant is cultivated as a decoration, and its oil is a cause for its production in certain areas. Furthermore, cultivation of this plant began in the 16th century.

As described in the preceding paragraphs, Lemon Balm originated in South-Central Europe, Iran, Central Asia, and the Mediterranean Basin.

How is Lemon Balm Made?

Lemon Balm output and growth are affected by soil type and location. However, after the plant matures and is ready to harvest, the labor becomes simpler. Lemon Balm leaves are often used fresh. So all you have to do is pick the leaves when they’re ready to use. Furthermore, some of these leaves are dry.

To do so, first pluck the leaves and discard the stems. Then, thoroughly rinse the leaves under running water to remove any dirt or dust. After that, lay the leaves on a piece of paper and soak them in water. Once completed, put it someplace it can dry thoroughly.

What Does Lemon Balm Taste Like?

The Lemon Balm has a lemon-like taste, as implied by the word lemon in the name. It does, however, impart a little mint taste. Furthermore, the fresh stems and leaves have a somewhat sweet flavor. That is why its other names include the word sweet.

How is Lemon Balm Used in Cooking?

You may use both fresh and dried Lemon Balm leaves in your cookery. If you want to release the taste of the dried leaves, add them together with the other ingredients and spices like celery and the recipe. Its fresh leaves may also be used as a garnishing component in cooking. However, we suggest adding fresh greens towards the end.

What Types of Cuisines Use Lemon Balm?

Lemon balm may be found in almost every cuisine. This herb is often used in sweets, seafood, salads, vinaigrettes, soups, and sauces in many cuisines. Lemon Balm is also well-known for its usage in tea and other beverages.

What is a Lemon Balm Substitute?

If you run out of Lemon Balm, you may substitute other ingredients for its flavor and scent. Freshly grated lemon, fresh mint, and fresh lemon basil are all wonderful replacements. You may achieve the same taste as Lemon Balm by combining these components.

Where to Buy Lemon Balm?

Lemon Bal is generally accessible at virtually every market since it is often used to make tea. However, always seek for quality before getting one. We propose a few high-quality goods for your consideration. These have a pleasant scent, are of high quality, and, most importantly, are reasonably priced. The following is a list of these goods. It’s worth to check Do Macadamia Nuts Go Bad?

• Organic Melissa officinalis Lemon Balm Leaf Cut & Sifted, 4 Oz
• Bulk Lemon Balm Leaf (Melissa Officinalis Caffeine Free) Herbal Balm, Bulk Balm Leaf (Cut and Sifted), 1lb (16Oz) Lemon Balm Tea (Bulk Herbal Tea): Wellness Bulk Tea from the United States
• Lemon Balm Herbal Tea, Loose Leaf, 2.0 Ounce Tin, The Tao of Tea

Sources

• Infinite Herbs
• Kitchen Herb Wife
• Healthline