Of course, we all agree that there is nothing better than eating ripe and fresh fruit right out of your hand; however, when this is not possible, the next best thing we can do is to put the fruits or veggies in the freezer.
Freezing fruits and veggies helps prolong their shelf life, it is easy and simple to do, economical, and will extend the duration of the sweetness and freshness sitting on your countertop.
Why Is Freezing Fruits & Veggies Useful?
What is great about freezing fresh produce is that it will not change the texture and yet, it will maintain the same flavor without the need for any sugar or other additives. Whether you have surplus lemons or some other fruit you have purchased in larger amounts like berries or cherries, put them in the freezer and use them later.
You will always have the needed fruit or veggie at hand and you can make different desserts and meals or flavor up your smoothies and maintain them cold in the same time. And, if you are craving a refreshing treat during the summer days, eat a banana or a grape straight out of your freezer- you will love it!
How to Freeze Fruits & Veggies in the Right Way
- Freeze vegetables and fruits when they are fresh
- Blanch veggies first and then submerge them in cold water and dry them before putting them in the freezer
- Put them in heavy and air-tight containers or freezer bags and put dates on the bags
- Remove as much as air as possible from the bags
- Veggies and fruits freeze optimally at 0 degrees Fahrenheit or colder
- You can store fruits in the freezer for up to 12 months whereas veggies up to 18 months
How to Freeze Veggies Properly
The best veggies to put in the freezer are the low-acid ones. Remember to blanch them prior to putting them in the freezer because it averts the enzymes from damaging the nutrients, flavor, and color. What’s more, this procedure will destroy microorganisms that may be present on their surface.
How to Freeze Fruits Properly
When freezing fruits, it is important to wash them and use a sugar or sugar-syrup preparation. However, there are fruits that can do without sugar like currants, blackberries, and cranberries.
To freeze delicate fruits like raspberries or berries, what you need to do is arrange them in a layer on a baking sheet. When they are frozen, put them in the bag or container. Fruits that are prone to browning, for example, apricots, peaches, and apples, you should treat them with vitamin C. you can find it in powder form in groceries or drugstores.
To prepare the wash, mix half of the powder and 3 tbsp of water and sprinkle it onto the cut fruit.
What about Thawing?
Most veggies can be put directly to boiling water from the freezer. However, some veggies like corn are best when left to thaw a bit prior to usage.
When it comes to fruit, it is best to leave them thaw at room temperature. Since berries may become mushy when they are entirely thawed, eat or use them before.
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