Preserving Nutrient Rich Goodness
Swiss chard, with its vibrant green leaves and colorful stalks, is a nutrient-packed leafy green. Its versatility in both culinary creations and health benefits makes it a valuable addition to any diet. Freezing Swiss chard allows you to extend its yumminess all through the year, while retaining its essential nutrients. In this blog, we’ll explore the process of freezing Swiss chard and delve into the remarkable health benefits it offers.
Freezing Swiss Chard: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Freezing Swiss chard is a straightforward process that helps you preserve its flavor, texture, and nutrients for months to come. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to freezing Swiss chard:
- Selecting Fresh Swiss Chard: Choose fresh Swiss chard with crisp leaves and vibrant stems. Avoid any wilted or damaged leaves, as they won’t freeze well.
- Washing and Cleaning: Thoroughly wash the Swiss chard leaves under cold running water to remove dirt and debris.
- Blanching: Blanching helps to retain the color, flavor, and nutrients of Swiss chard while deactivating enzymes that can lead to deterioration. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and prepare a bowl of ice water. Submerge the Swiss chard leaves in the boiling water for about 2 minutes, then immediately transfer them to the ice water to cool rapidly.
- Draining and Packaging: Once cooled, drain and squeeze the blanched Swiss chard leaves thoroughly to remove excess moisture. Place sqeezed packets onto old towel and then roll and squeeze some more. Chop up leaves and place into silicone cups or muffin tin. Put into freezer overnight uncovered. Once frozen through, unmold and place them in airtight freezer bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Labeling: Don’t forget to label the bags or containers with the date of freezing to keep track of freshness.
- Freezing: Place the bags or containers in the freezer. Freeze, smile and Enjoy!
That’s a wrap on freezing Swiss chard and celebrating its health wonders. By freezing this leafy superstar, you’re not only keeping it fresh but also stocking up on a treasure trove of nutrients and benefits. So, whether you’re sautéing, blending, or simply admiring the colorful stems, let Swiss chard bring its A-game to your kitchen and your health.
