Freeze Your Aromatics For Much Quicker (And Cheaper) Meals
Fresh herbs and aromatics are essential ingredients in many dishes, providing a burst of flavor and aroma that can elevate a meal from good to great. Unfortunately, these ingredients often have a short shelf life, and can quickly wilt and lose their flavor if not used in time. This is where freezing comes in — an easy and cost-effective method to extend the shelf life of herbs and aromatics.
Freezing herbs and aromatics is a great option for home cooks because it is a simple and practical solution that allows you to preserve the freshness and flavor of these ingredients for an extended period of time. Not only does it prevent waste, but it can also save you money in the long run by allowing you to buy in bulk or grow your own herbs without worrying about using them before they go bad. In addition to being a thoughtful practice, freezing aromatics is also great for those who like to keep a lot of different types of herbs and other flavorful ingredients on hand — even if they don't use them regularly.
Prep your aromatics for the freezer
The process of freezing aromatics is straightforward, and the results are worth it. Start by washing and drying your herbs and aromatics thoroughly, removing any damaged or wilted leaves. You can then chop them into small pieces or leave them whole, depending on your preference. Next, place them into an ice cube tray, filling each compartment about halfway. Pour a little bit of water or olive oil over the top of the herbs and aromatics, making sure they are fully covered which help keep them from browning. Finally, place the tray in the freezer and leave it until the herbs and aromatics are fully frozen.
When you're ready to use the frozen herbs and aromatics, simply pop them out of the ice cube tray and add them directly to your recipe. You can also store them in a freezer-safe container or bag for later use. This will help keep them fresh or from taking on the aroma of other ingredients. The best part is that you don't need to thaw the cubes of herbs because they will defrost quickly in your dish.
So, next time you have a surplus of fresh herbs or aromatics, give freezing a try and see how it can transform your cooking.