How to Freeze Kale: A Step-by-Step Guide
Freezing kale is a great way to lock in its nutritional benefits while saving time when prepping meals. Kale is high in fiber, antioxidants and vitamins, and freezes well due to its hardy texture. Here is a step-by-step guide to freezing kale, so that you can maintain the nutritional and time-saving benefits of this delicious leafy green all year round.
Benefits of Freezing Kale
First, let's explore some of the benefits that freezing kale has to offer. Freezing kale preserves much of its nutritional value. Keeping kale in the freezer also means that you can prep meals much more quickly. You can add frozen kale to smoothies, soups or stews without having to wash and chop fresh leaves, and it tastes almost as good. Finally, freezing kale saves money by reducing waste, as you can keep it for longer without having to discard spoilage.
In addition, freezing kale is a great way to store it for long periods of time. You can keep it in the freezer for up to a year, and it will still retain its flavor and nutritional value. This makes it a great option for stocking up on kale when it's in season and then having it available for use throughout the year. Freezing kale also makes it easier to portion out individual servings, so you can take out just what you need for a meal and not have to worry about the rest going bad.
What You Will Need
Firstly, you will need some fresh kale. Check the leaves over for signs of damage or discolouration and discard any damaged leaves. Make sure to wash the kale thoroughly, as any dirt will be frozen and difficult to remove later. You will also need a large bowl of cold water to immerse the washed kale in, as well as a medium-sized pot filled with boiling water and a large baking tray.
Once the kale is washed and dried, you will need to prepare it for blanching. Remove the stems and any tough ribs from the leaves, then cut the leaves into small, bite-sized pieces. Place the prepared kale into the boiling water and allow it to cook for 2-3 minutes. Once cooked, remove the kale from the boiling water and immediately place it into the bowl of cold water to stop the cooking process.
Step 1: Washing the Kale
Fill a bowl or sink with cold water, then place the washed kale into the water. Splash the leaves around with your hands to ensure that any dirt is removed. Once all the leaves have been washed, give them a good rinse off before removing them from the water.
It is important to make sure that all the dirt and debris is removed from the kale before cooking. If any dirt is left on the leaves, it can affect the taste and texture of the dish. Additionally, it is important to make sure that the kale is completely dry before cooking, as any excess moisture can also affect the taste and texture.
Step 2: Blanching the Kale
Blanching the kale allows the leaves to retain their color and flavor. Fill a medium-sized pot with boiling water and place the washed kale in the pot. Boil the kale for approximately 1 to 2 minutes before removing it from the heat.
Once the kale has been removed from the heat, immediately transfer it to a bowl of cold water. This will stop the cooking process and help the kale retain its vibrant green color. After a few minutes, drain the kale and pat it dry with a paper towel.
Step 3: Cooling the Blanched Kale
Immediately submerge the blanched kale into a bowl of cold water to stop it from cooking any further. This will help to preserve its flavor and color. Keep the leaves in the cold water for 1 to 2 minutes.
Step 4: Drying the Kale
Once cooled, remove the leaves from the water and spread them out on a large baking tray or clean kitchen towel. Pat each leaf dry using the towel or paper towels. Ensure that each leaf is completely dry, as any moisture may cause mould during storage.
Once the leaves are completely dry, you can store them in an airtight container or bag. Place the container in the refrigerator and use the kale within a few days for the best flavor and texture.
Step 5: Chopping and Bagging the Kale
Chop the leaves into desired sizes before packaging them into sealable freezer bags or airtight containers. Remove as much air as possible from each bag or container to prevent freezer burn. Labeling each container with the date is also a good idea.
When chopping the kale, it is important to use a sharp knife to ensure that the leaves are cut evenly. Additionally, it is best to chop the kale into small pieces, as this will help to preserve the flavor and texture of the kale when it is frozen.
Step 6: Labeling and Storing the Kale
Label each container with the date you froze the kale and store it in the freezer for up to 6 months. Properly frozen kale is safe toeat for up to half a year.
When you are ready to use the kale, take it out of the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, you can use the kale in smoothies, soups, salads, and other recipes.
Tips for Perfectly Frozen Kale
Make sure the kale is completely dry before freezing.
Remove as much air as possible from each container or bag.
Freeze kale on the same day you buy it to ensure peak freshness.
Add spices or seasonings before freezing so you can enjoy your favorite flavors with ease.
Following these steps should help you lock in all of the wonderful nutritional benefits of kale while enjoying its convenience and deliciousness year round!
When you're ready to use your frozen kale, you can either thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or add it directly to your recipe. If you're adding it to a soup or stew, you can add it frozen and it will thaw as it cooks.
