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Freezing Herbs for Preservation

Process

Begin by harvesting the herbs from your garden or purchasing them from a local market. Choose herbs that are fresh and vibrant in color. Remove any damaged or wilted leaves.

Next, gently rinse the herbs under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.

Step 2: Preparing for Freezing

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There are two common methods for freezing herbs: freezing them as whole leaves or chopping them into smaller pieces.

If you prefer to freeze the herbs as whole leaves, simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure the leaves are not touching each other to prevent them from sticking together.

If you choose to chop the herbs, finely chop them using a sharp knife or use a food processor. Transfer the chopped herbs into ice cube trays or small freezer-safe containers.

Step 3: Freezing

Place the baking sheet with whole leaves or the ice cube trays/containers with chopped herbs in the freezer. Allow them to freeze completely, which usually takes a few hours.

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Step 4: Storing

Once the herbs are frozen, transfer them into airtight freezer bags or containers. Label them with the herb name and the date of freezing for easy identification.

Step 5: Usage

When you need to use the frozen herbs, simply remove the desired amount from the freezer and add them directly to your recipes. There is no need to thaw them beforehand.

Tip: Frozen herbs are best used in cooked dishes, as freezing can slightly alter their texture. They may not retain their crispness when used as a garnish.

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