What foods can be frozen without plastic containers?

Question

What foods can be frozen without using any plastic containers? Get a list of eco-friendly alternatives like glass and stainless steel for your freezer prep.

Answer 1

Many foods can be frozen without plastic by using alternatives like glass containers, silicone bags, beeswax wraps, parchment paper, or simply freezing items individually on a tray before storing them in a larger container.

Detailed Explanation:

Freezing food without plastic is a great way to reduce your environmental impact and avoid potential chemical leaching. Here's a breakdown of how to freeze different types of foods using plastic-free methods:

1. Liquids (Soups, Stocks, Sauces): Glass jars (leaving headspace for expansion) or silicone bags work well. Make sure the glass is freezer-safe to prevent cracking. Cool the liquid completely before freezing.
2. Fruits and Vegetables: For berries, chopped vegetables, or fruit slices, spread them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. This prevents them from clumping together. Once frozen, transfer them to a reusable container like a glass jar or silicone bag. Larger vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower can be blanched first to preserve their quality.
3. Baked Goods (Bread, Muffins, Cookies): Wrap individual items tightly in parchment paper or beeswax wraps. Then, place them in a larger container or bag for extra protection. You can also freeze them directly on a tray and then transfer them to a container.
4. Meat and Poultry: Wrap individual portions tightly in parchment paper or butcher paper. For extra protection, place the wrapped portions in a reusable container. Ensure the meat is properly sealed to prevent freezer burn.
5. Herbs: Chop fresh herbs and mix them with a little water or oil. Freeze them in ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the herb cubes to a reusable container.
6. Cheese: Hard cheeses like cheddar or parmesan can be frozen. Wrap them tightly in parchment paper or beeswax wraps. Freezing can change the texture slightly, making them more crumbly.

Pro Tip:

Always label and date your frozen food, regardless of the container type. This helps you keep track of what's inside and ensures you use it within a reasonable timeframe (typically 2-3 months for optimal quality).