Expiration & Storage Tips
When does poblano pepper expire?
Unopened and stored in a dry place, whole poblano peppers usually stay fresh for about 1-2 weeks. However, the expiration date might vary depending on the freshness of the pepper when it was bought. Once poblano peppers have been cut open, they can last in the refrigerator for about 2-3 days. When frozen, poblano peppers can last up to 10-12 months but they might lose some of their texture and flavor over time.
How do you tell if poblano pepper is bad?
There are a few key signs to tell if a poblano pepper has gone bad: Mold, visible soft or dark spots, or a wrinkly skin can all signal that the pepper is decayed or rotting. Another common sign would be a sour, rotten smell emanating from the pepper. Lastly, if the pepper has a slimy texture, it's most definitely spoiled and should not be consumed.
Tips for storing poblano pepper to extend shelf life
• Store poblanos in a cool, dark place if they are uncut for longer shelf life. A crisper drawer in the refrigerator is an ideal place. Less humidity will help to prevent mildew and mold.
• If the peppers are cut, wrap them in plastic wrap or put them in a sealed plastic bag before refrigerating them. Try to use them within a couple of days.
• For an even longer storage period, you can freeze the peppers. It's best to blanch them first, then remove the stems and seeds, before freezing them in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• Drying poblano peppers is another way to preserve them. Once dried, they can be used in cooking or ground into a spice.