STORING IN THE FREEZER

Freezing things is a great way to make quick meals and storing items for later. typically I use zip lock bags and tupperware to store my items in the freezer. It does take a bit of work but makes life easier and convenient later. I usually buy fruit on sale or through the farmers market. I never worry if I'll use up whatever I've purchased within a week or 2. I also label the items with the date it has to be used by. I never come close to that date because I cook quite a bit.

When freezing my already cooked items, I always freeze in serving size portions.

In my deep freezer you may find the following:

- FRUIT

Pineapple

How to store:
Cut (You can add a small amount of sugar sprinkled on top (although not
necessary))
Place in a single layer on top of parchment/wax paper, place in freezer
once frozen place in bag.



Mango

How to store:
Cut and sprinkle with lemon juice
Place in a single layer on top of parchment/wax paper, place in freezer
once frozen place in bag.


Strawberries
How to store:
Cut (you can add a small amount of sugar sprinkle on top)
Place in a single layer on top of parchment/wax paper, place in freezer
once frozen place in bag.

Banana
How to store:
Cut and sprinkle with lemon juice
Place on a single level on top of parchment/wax paper, place in freezer
once frozen place in bag.


- MEAT

  Like most people I have chicken, sausage etc.


- FISH love to buy from the seafood market I go to. Items are fresh off the boat and cheaper.)

Shrimp
Head on/off its your choice
Place in container with water and freezer. Make sure shrimp is completely covered
Basa
Place in container with water and freezer. Make sure Basa is completely covered

- VEGGIES  - ALMOST ALL SHOULD BE BLANCHED

snap peas
Blanch and freeze
onions
carrots
Blanch and freeze

JARS OF STOCK

Seasoning

Sofrito
Placed in an ice cube tray then a zip lock once frozen.
Herbs
Small amount of oil to coat herbs.(I prefer olive) then chop
Place in zip lock bag and flatten. It makes it easier to take out small amounts as needed.
if you have a ice cube try with small cube inserts then you could you that too.

Already prepared/cooked food

Brown rice
Soup
Gumbo
Spanish beans

For storage times and guidelines I've included a few links.

ANSWERS TO SOME STORAGE QUESTIONS BY THE FDA


BASIC FDA GUIDELINES


BLANCHING GUIDELINES