By Susan Werner 
Herbs are nature’s gift to the culinary world, adding vibrant flavors and fragrant aromas to our dishes. However, the challenge of using fresh herbs is that they often come in bunches larger than needed, leading to food waste as they wilt and spoil. Freezing fresh herbs in oil is a practical and efficient solution, allowing you to preserve their delightful flavors for a later date.
The Benefits of Freezing Herbs in Oil
Freezing herbs in oil offers several advantages over traditional methods. Not only does it preserve the taste and aroma of fresh herbs, but it also provides convenience. Having ready-to-use herb cubes on hand means you can jump-start your cooking without the need for chopping and prepping fresh herbs each time you cook.
Why Use Oil?
When herbs are frozen with oil, they maintain their flavor and avoid freezer burn better than if they were frozen plain or in water. The oil also enhances the release of essential oils and flavors when added to sautéed dishes, soups, or sauces. Additionally, using oil reduces the overall water content that can cause herbs to become limp and flavorless.
Steps to Freeze Herbs in Oil
1. Choose Your Herbs
You can use virtually any herb you love! Popular choices include basil, parsley, cilantro, rosemary, and thyme. Consider which dishes you frequently prepare and select herbs that complement those meals.
2. Preparation
Wash and Dry: Wash the herbs thoroughly and allow them to dry completely. Excess moisture can cause ice crystals to form, leading to freezer burn.
Chop: Depending on how you plan to use the herbs later, either chop them finely or leave the leaves whole. For instance, roughly chopped basil works great in sauces, while whole rosemary sprigs are perfect for roasting.
3. Fill Ice Cube Trays
Pack: Place your chopped herbs into an ice cube tray. Fill each compartment about halfway.
Add Oil: Pour your choice of oil over the herbs. Olive oil is commonly used, but you can opt for avocado oil, ghee, or melted coconut oil, depending on your cooking needs. Ensure the herbs are fully submerged to prevent freezer burn.
4. Freeze
Put the tray in the freezer and allow it to freeze completely, usually overnight. Once frozen, you can pop the herb cubes out of the tray and transfer them into a labeled freezer bag or container for long-term storage.
Cooking with Herb Bombs
Use these flavorful herb cubes in a variety of dishes. Simply add a cube to a hot pan when making:
- Pasta Sauces: Add a couple of herb bombs for a quick flavor boost in tomato or cream sauces.
- Soups and Stews: Toss in a cube directly from the freezer to enrich your broth.
- Stir-fried Dishes: Cook them quickly in a hot pan for a fragrant stir-fry.
- Egg Dishes: Melt a cube in your skillet for flavorful scrambled eggs or omelets.
Additional Tips
- Choose the Right Oil: Keep in mind the smoke point of the oil you use. For high-heat cooking, oils like avocado oil are preferable, while olive oil is great for lower heat.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Enhance your herb cubes by blending in other flavors, such as garlic, lemon zest, or even a pinch of chili flakes.
Conclusion
Freezing herbs in oil not only preserves their fresh flavors but also transforms them into a culinary convenience that simplifies your cooking. With this straightforward method, you can reduce food waste while enriching your meals with herb-infused oils. Embrace this technique and enjoy the bouquet of flavors freshly frozen herbs have to offer all year long, right at your fingertips.
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