Okra is a versatile vegetable that can be enjoyed cooked or raw. If you have an abundance of fresh okra, freezing it is a great way to preserve it for later use. When freezing okra, it is important to choose young, tender pods that are no more than 4 inches long. Wash the okra and trim off the stem end. Cut the okra into pieces or leave whole, depending on how you plan to use it later. Blanch the okra in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then shock in ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain well and pat dry. Place the okra on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for 2-3 hours, or until solid. Transfer the
7 Steps to Freeze Fresh Okra Whole
To freeze okra whole, simply wash the okra and cut off the stem. Lay the okra on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and place in the freezer for about two hours. Once frozen, transfer the okra to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to six months. When ready to use, thaw the okra in the refrigerator overnight and cook as desired.
Learning how to freeze fresh okra whole is important because it is a versatile vegetable that can be used in many different dishes. It can be used in soups, stews, casseroles, and even as a side dish. When frozen, it will last for several months and can be used as needed.
Step 1: Wash The Okra In Cool Water And Pat It Dry
To freeze whole okra, start by washing the okra in cool water and patting it dry. Then, cut off the stem end and cut the okra into 1-inch pieces. Next, spread the okra out on a baking sheet and freeze for 2-3 hours. Once frozen, transfer the okra to a freezer bag and store in the freezer for up to 6 months.
Step 2: Trim The Stem Ends
If you are freezing okra whole, you will need to trim the stem ends off before you begin. This step is important because it allows for even freezing and prevents the okra from becoming freezer burned.
Step 3: Cut The Okra Into 1Inch Pieces
Cut the okra into 1inch pieces. Spread the okra out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Transfer the okra to a freezer bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Step 4: Place The Okra In A Single Layer On A Baking Sheet
Place the okra in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the okra to a freezer-safe bag or container and label with the date. Frozen okra will keep for up to 6 months in the freezer.
Step 5: Place The Baking Sheet In The Freezer
The final step in freezing fresh okra is to place the baking sheet in the freezer. This will help keep the okra fresh and allow you to enjoy it for a longer period of time.
Step 6: Freeze For 2 Hours Or Until The Okra Is Frozen
After cutting the okra into desired pieces, lay them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for 2 hours or until the okra is frozen. Once frozen, transfer the okra to a freezer-safe bag or container.
Step 7: Transfer The Frozen Okra To A Freezer Bag
After washing and drying the okra, transfer it to a freezer bag. Squeeze out any excess air, then seal the bag. Label the bag with the date and contents. Okra can be frozen for up to eight months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do You Wash Fresh Okra Before Freezing?
Yes, you should wash fresh okra before freezing. This will help to remove any dirt or debris that may be on the surface of the okra.
How Do You Freeze Okra For The Winter?
To freeze okra for the winter, slice the okra into pieces and spread them out on a baking sheet. Freeze the okra for about 2 hours, or until solid. Transfer the frozen okra to a freezer bag and label it with the date.
Summing-Up
To freeze fresh okra whole, blanch it in boiling water for two minutes, then cool it in ice water. Drain it, then place it in a freezer bag and freeze.
