What is flash freezing?

Flash freezing is a technique of freezing individual pieces of food separately to prevent them from sticking together. The food is spread out on a baking sheet, then frozen and packed into airtight containers for long-term storage. This method offers the convenience of thawing and using only the desired amount of food, rather than defrosting larger quantities from your freezer.

To blanch or not to blanch?

When it comes to freezing fruits and vegetables, you may have heard the term “blanching” before. Blanching is a process of briefly boiling produce before freezing it, which can help preserve its texture, color, and nutrients.

However, not all fruits and vegetables need to be blanched before freezing. Some, like berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries), can simply be spread out on a baking sheet and placed in the freezer.

On the other hand, vegetables like broccoli, corn and green beans benefit from blanching before freezing. So, to blanch or not to blanch? It depends on the specific produce you’re working with, but following the right method can help ensure the best results when freezing your favorite fruits and vegetables. Refer to our free A to Z Vegetable Storage Guide for the specifics for each vegetable.

How to flash freeze fruits and vegetables.

1. Prepare food: Wash and remove any stems, seeds, or pits. Cut into small pieces, if desired.
2. Blanch, if necessary: Place pieces in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then immediately transfer them to ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain and pat dry.
3. Freeze: Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat and place it in the freezer.
4. Store: After 2-3 hours, when frozen solid, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag and label with the date.

Tips for Flash Freezing Success

• Use fresh produce that is in peak condition for the best results.
• Store flash-frozen produce in airtight containers or bags to prevent freezer burn.
• Label and date your frozen produce to keep track of how long it has been in the freezer.
• Use flash-frozen produce within 6-8 months for best quality and flavor.

Flash freezing is a simple and effective way to preserve your favorite fruits and vegetables for later use.