Though many modern homes use refrigerators to keep their food fresh, a root cellar offers another great way for anyone who wishes to store produce safely and affordably. Root cellars are traditionally constructed underground to store potatoes, beets, carrots, turnips, squash and other crops that benefit from cool damp storage – this also extends their shelf life of home-canned pickles, preserves fermented foods or broth.
People used to build root cellars by digging them themselves from either the ground or an existing hillside on their property, with an entrance that faces either directly into sunlight or an enclosed entrance with steps, depending on its placement. An ideal root cellar would be below ground level so that its natural cooling effects could regulate temperatures within, protecting produce from freezing during harsh winter temperatures or overheating during hotter times of the year. Sandy soil that drains well should be chosen, with insulation for walls, ceilings and door helping keep cool air coming from below ground and keeping out stale air, helping reduce mildew and mold growth inside.
At 32degF to 40degF, crops should be stored to maximize quality while preventing freezing. Lower temperatures slow growth and respiration rates of plants which in turn improves quality while decreasing decay rates. Root cellars make an ideal environment for this, keeping food cool even during hot summers.
Once a root cellar has been constructed, the next step should be filling it with food. A root cellar should contain easily stored vegetables like carrots, beets and squash; clean and free from any blemishes are best. Some produce may need curing before storage to harden its skins and seal any holes which might allow bacteria into its system.
Sooner or later, vegetables are going to spoil. One way of preventing this is removing any rotting produce promptly so the remaining produce can be eaten right away or preserved using methods like canning and fermentation.
Root cellars provide the equivalent of six-month supplies of vegetables on hand and help offset the expense of refrigerated refrigerators. A root cellar is an investment in your family’s health that also reclaims some lost art of food preservation; you’ll enjoy healthy meals that are both nutritious and delectable! For most people, the benefits outweigh any labor involved in creating one; many companies manufacture pre-manufactured root cellars that only need installation; this option may be ideal if you don’t possess construction experience!