Winter brings an abundance of hearty vegetables bursting with flavor, and preserving them for year-round use is a fantastic way to enjoy their freshness even when they're out of season. With The CUBE home freeze dryer, you can effortlessly freeze dry your winter veggie harvest and extend their shelf life while maintaining their nutritional value and taste.
-
Preparation: Start by selecting fresh, ripe winter vegetables like onions, garlic, carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and more. Thoroughly wash and cut them into uniform sizes for even freeze-drying.
-
Blanching: Blanching the vegetables before freeze-drying can help retain their color, flavor, and nutritional value. Bring a pot of water to a boil and immerse the veggies for a brief period—around 2-5 minutes. Quickly transfer them to an ice bath to halt the cooking process.
-
Arranging for Freeze Drying: Place the blanched veggies on The CUBE's trays in a single layer, ensuring proper spacing for optimal air circulation during the freeze-drying process.
-
Freeze Drying Cycle: Set The CUBE to the appropriate freeze-drying cycle for vegetables. The machine will work its magic, extracting moisture gently while preserving the vegetables' integrity.
-
Monitoring and Storage: Once the cycle is complete, monitor the vegetables for dryness. Properly freeze-dried vegetables should be crispy and free of moisture. Store them in airtight containers or Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers for long-term preservation.
-
Rehydrating: Be sure to weigh your harvest before freeze drying and after. This weight vs the weight after will tell you how much water you need to rehydrate. When you're ready to use the freeze-dried veggies, rehydrate them by soaking in water or adding them directly to soups, stews, casseroles, or any recipe that calls for fresh veggies. They'll absorb moisture and regain their original texture and taste.
Freeze drying your winter vegetable harvest ensures you have a supply of nutrient-rich, flavorful veggies on hand throughout the year. The CUBE simplifies the preservation process, allowing you to enjoy the goodness of winter produce long after the season ends. Experience the joy of winter flavors no matter the season with The CUBE!
