Step-by-Step Freezing

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Introduction:

Freezing is a method for preserving fresh foods. During the freezing process, the extreme cold retards growth of microorganisms and slows down enzyme activity, preventing food spoilage and undesirable texture, flavor and color changes.

Freezing keeps the natural color, fresh flavor and nutritive qualities of most foods better than other methods such as fresh preserving (home canning) or dehydrating. Because the end result is more similar to fresh foods than those canned or dried, freezing is becoming a popular method of food preservation. Plus, it is simple to do and takes little time!

You Will Need:

  • Freezing recipe such as one found in the Ball Blue Book® Guide to Preserving or www.freshpreserving.com
  • Common kitchen utensils and meal preparation equipment
  • Freezer containers or packaging, such as freezer safe glass or plastic jars, plastic freezer bags, vacuum packages, freezer foil or freezer paper
  • Fresh produce and other quality ingredients

Step 1

READ through recipe and instructions. Assemble equipment and ingredients. Follow guidelines for recipe preparation, type and size of packaging and freezing method.

Step 2

SELECT appropriate freezer containers or packaging for the type of food being frozen. Use rigid containers for foods which are liquid or semi-liquid at room temperature and flexible wrap for foods which are solid at room temperature. Wash freezer containers in hot soapy water. Rinse well and dry.

Step 3

PREPARE fresh produce and other quality ingredients according to the freezing recipe instructions. Vegetables require blanching, a critical step to cleanse off surface dirt, brighten the color, help retain vitamins and reduce the action of enzymes which can destroy the fresh flavor.

Step 4

PACK prepared food in appropriate freezer containers or wrap with freezer packaging according to the recipe instructions. For rigid containers, leave 1/2 inch headspace to allow for expansion of liquid during freezing.

Step 5

LABEL containers or packaging with the date and name of the product.

Step 6

FREEZE in a single layer near the coldest spot in the freezer. After food is frozen solid, the containers can be stacked.

Step 7

STORE at 0°F in the freezer for the recommended length of time, click here for Freezer-Life Storage Guide.

Step-by-Step Fresh Preserving of Low-Acid Foods

For low-acid foods such as vegetables and meats that are processed in a pressure canner.



Step-by-Step Fresh Preserving of High-Acid Foods

For high-acid foods such as tomatoes, fruit, and pickles that are processed in a boiling water bath.