Freezing chopped garlic chives in ice cube trays is a simple and effective method for long-term preservation. This technique keeps their flavour and allows for easy portioning when needed for cooking.
One highly recommended way to preserve garlic chives is by using the ice cube freezing method. This process is straightforward and ensures you have perfectly portioned chives ready to add directly to your dishes.
Freezing Garlic Chives in Ice Cube Trays
This method involves a few simple steps to lock in the freshness of your garlic chives:
- Prepare the Chives: Start by thoroughly washing and drying your garlic chives. Once dry, finely chop them.
- Portion into Trays: Sprinkle the chopped chives into ice cube trays. A practical tip from the reference is to measure the amount you most commonly use in cooking, such as 1 teaspoon, into each cube compartment. This pre-portioning makes it easy to grab just the right amount for your recipes later.
- Add Liquid: Cover the chopped chives in each cube with a liquid. You have a few options here:
- Water: A simple and neutral choice.
- Stock: Using chicken or vegetable stock can add an extra layer of flavour, depending on how you plan to use the chives.
- Olive Oil: Covering with olive oil creates flavourful frozen blocks perfect for sautéing or adding to sauces.
- Freeze Solid: Place the filled ice cube trays into the freezer and freeze them until the cubes are completely solid.
- Repack for Storage: Once frozen, pop the chive cubes out of the trays. Transfer them into freezer bags. To maintain quality and prevent freezer burn, be sure to remove as much air as possible from the bags before sealing them.
This preservation method allows you to enjoy the taste of fresh garlic chives long after they've been harvested, making them readily available for soups, stews, stir-fries, omelets, and many other dishes.
Summary of Ice Cube Method Steps:
- Chop chives.
- Measure into ice cube trays (e.g., 1 tsp per cube).
- Cover with water, stock, or olive oil.
- Freeze until solid.
- Remove cubes.
- Repack in bags, removing air.
By following these steps, you can easily preserve your garlic chives and have a convenient supply on hand for future culinary adventures.
