Freezing is one of the easiest ways to preserve a batch of carrots. Frozen carrots can be used all winter in soups, stews, stir-fries, and casseroles. Learn how to blanch and freeze carrots with this easy step-by-step guide.
When it comes to fresh produce, carrots are one of the most versatile vegetables around. They can be enjoyed raw, boiled, roasted, or stir-fried. You can add carrots to soups, stews, casseroles, and puree them into smoothies. But what do you do if you have an abundant harvest, or find a great deal on carrots at the farmers’ market?
Go ahead and stock up! You can preserve carrots for up to a year by blanching and freezing.
Can you freeze carrots without blanching? Blanching is optional, but helps ensure that carrots retain their nutrients, texture, color, and flavor. You may absolutely skip it, but just be aware that your frozen carrots will be best enjoyed incopproated into a recipe verse on their own.
Step 1: Gather your equipment
Simple kitchen equipment is all you’ll need to freeze carrots. Gather the following kitchen gear, set up your work area, and prepare your carrots for freezing:
- Large pot
- Colander or mesh strainer
- 2 large prep bowls
- Vegetable peeler
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Slotted spoon
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Zipper type freezer bags, or freezer container of choice
- Kitchen towels
Tips for Freezing Carrots
Choose carrots that are fresh, firm, and healthy for freezing. If you are not able to preserve your carrots right away, trim off the greens, and store in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator for several weeks.
If you have never thought of freezing carrots before, you may have questions. Here are some tips and answers to frequently asked questions about freezing carrots:
Can you freeze carrots without blanching them first?
FAQ
Do I have to blanch carrots before freezing?
Can you vacuum seal and freeze carrots without blanching?
What does blanching do to carrots?
Can I freeze grated carrots?
How do you Blanch carrots before freezing?
To blanch them before freezing, simply put your carrots into hot water with or without kosher salt. I recommend leaving small whole ones in the boiling water for 5 minutes. Cut or sliced pieces should only be balanced for 2-3 minutes. The goal is not to cook them, but to simply flash-heat them to seal in the goodness and kill germs.
Can you freeze thawed carrots?
That means that once they’re thawed, they’ll be mushier, which might be fine depending on how you intend to use them. To blanch them before freezing, simply put your carrots into hot water with or without kosher salt. I recommend leaving small whole ones in the boiling water for 5 minutes.
Can you freeze unblanched carrots?
Although blanching is an excellent way to preserve a carrot’s flavor before storing, it can be a time-consuming process. If you’d prefer not to blanch your carrots, you can freeze unblanched carrots for up to 10 months at a time. Depending on your preferences, you can store unblanched carrots by chopping, shredding, or pureeing them beforehand.
Can you eat frozen carrots without blanching?
Please note, frozen carrots are best used in soups, stews, and hot dishes. They won’t retain crispness for fresh eating or stir-fries. Can I Freeze Carrots Without Blanching Them First?