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How to Blanch Vegetables Before Freezing

Video by Jonathan Parrish

If you have a lot of fresh produce you want to preserve, freezing is the fastest and easiest method. But before you throw those veggies in a freezer bag, check to see if they should be blanched.

Blanching refers to placing vegetables in boiling water for a short time then quickly cooling them in ice water. So, why blanch vegetables before freezing? Blanching is more about quality than food safety. Blanching stops the enzyme actions, which cause loss of flavor, color and texture. It also helps soften some vegetables, such as broccoli and asparagus, and makes them easier to pack.

Here’s a quick chart to help you know how long to blanch your vegetables.

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