Food Preservation: Freezing
Freezing is a simple, quick way to preserve foods. Fruits and vegetables freeze well and retain their distinct fruit flavor. Texture is usually softened somewhat by freezing, but serving partially frozen fruit or vegetables with ice crystals will compensate for texture changes. Lighter colored fruits and vegetables may require special treatment to retain color, texture and flavor.
How To... Freeze Foods
Vegetable Freezing Methods
Heating or blanching is an important step in preparing vegetables for freezing. The heat is needed to inactivate enzymes. This prevents loss of flavor and color during storage. The heating also wilts or softens vegetables and makes them easier to pack.
Fruit Freezing Methods
Freezing is a simple, quick way to preserve foods. Fruits freeze well and retain their distinct fruit flavor. Texture is usually softened somewhat by freezing, but serving partially frozen fruit with ice crystals will compensate for texture changes. Lighter colored fruits may require special treatment to retain color, texture and flavor.
How To... Freezing Basics
- Freezing
- Blanching
- Good packaging
- Safe Defrosting
- Refreezing
- Using and Cooking Frozen Foods
