The summer sun shines in the orchard, and the ripe strawberries seem to exude sweet temptation. Each one is a masterpiece of nature, with its deep red color and sweet taste that makes people salivate. However, the delicacies of the season always seem to come in a hurry, and we are always reluctant to say goodbye. don’t worry! Let’s reveal a little secret to keep the taste of summer with us: frozen strawberries.
image from Alena
Choose strawberries that are ripe, firm, and free of soft spots or mildew. The fresher the strawberries, the better they taste after freezing.
Wash the Strawberries
Rinse the strawberries under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities. Pat dry gently with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel.
Remove the Stems
Use a paring knife or strawberry destemmer to remove the stems and any green leaves from the strawberries. You can also cut away any bruised or damaged parts.
Choose Your Freezing Method
There are a few different ways to freeze strawberries:
Whole strawberries: Arrange strawberries neatly on a baking sheet lined with baking paper. Place the baking sheet in the freezer until the strawberries are completely frozen, then transfer to an ice pack or airtight container.
Slice or halve the strawberries: If you prefer, you can also slice or halve the strawberries before freezing. Simply spread the sliced strawberries out on a baking sheet, freeze until completely chilled, and then transfer to an ice pack or container.
image from Olix Iz
Sugar Packing: You can also freeze the strawberries in sugar to help preserve their texture and flavor. Toss sliced strawberries with a small amount of sugar (about 1/4 cup per quart of strawberries) and let sit to soften, about 15 minutes. Then transfer the strawberries and any juice to an ice pack or container.
Label and Date
Once the strawberries are frozen and packaged, label the ice packs or containers with the date so you can keep track of how long they have been stored.
Store in the Freezer
Place ice packs or containers of strawberries in the freezer. Try to get as much air out of the bag as possible to prevent frost burn. Store strawberries in the coldest part of the freezer for best results.
Tips
Use Freezer Bags or Containers: Freezer bags or airtight containers are ideal for storing frozen strawberries. They help prevent freezer burn and keep the strawberries tasting fresh.
Flash Freeze: Flash-freezing strawberries on a baking sheet before transferring to bags or containers will prevent them from clumping together in the freezer.
Use within 6 to 12 months: Although frozen strawberries can be stored for a long time, they are best used within 6 to 12 months of freezing for the best flavor and texture.
Thaw: When you’re ready to use frozen strawberries, you can thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or use them straight from the freezer in smoothies, sauces, or baked goods.
Whether used to make refreshing smoothies, rich jams, or incorporated into baked desserts, frozen strawberries are a magical weapon in the kitchen. In the cold winter, close your eyes and taste the summer memories brought by frozen strawberries, as if you are back in the sunny orchard. Let us cherish every frozen strawberry, let the taste of summer last throughout the year, and make life full of beauty and surprises!