Methods for Preserving Meat: Discover 3 Strategies to Maintain Freshness and Flavor
Mint, a popular herb known for its refreshing aroma and flavour, can now be enjoyed throughout the year thanks to three simple freezing methods. Before diving into the techniques, it's essential to note that for optimal preservation of mint's quality, the freezing process should be carried out at a temperature of -18°C.
The first method is the ice cube method. To prepare mint ice cubes, 3-4 leaves are placed in an ice cube tray, filled with water, and frozen at -18°C for 2 hours. Once frozen, the ice cubes are transferred to a bag and can be stored for up to 9 months. Mint ice cubes are popular for their fresh appearance in cocktails, as well as being suitable for refreshing drinks, salads, or soups after thawing.
Another method is the food wrap method. For this technique, leaves from the top part of the stems are placed, rolled tightly, and stored at -18°C for up to 9 months. Thawed stems from the food wrap method are quick to thaw at room temperature and are ideal for stuffing meat or vegetable rolls and garnishing dishes.
The container/bag method is the third method for freezing mint. Leaves are plucked from stems, placed without compacting, air is removed, and the mint is stored at -18°C for 6-9 months.
Before freezing, mint is washed in cold water and dried to avoid excess moisture. If an ice cube tray is unavailable, silicone molds can be used as an alternative. Working quickly prevents ice cubes with mint from melting during transfer.
It's worth mentioning that freezing in ice cubes preserves the leaves' colour and shape, while mint retains its aroma and freshness when frozen correctly. All frozen mint preparations should be stored at -18°C to prevent spoilage.
For those who prefer traditional methods, drying the mint by hanging small bundles in a shady, airy place at temperatures below 30 °C is another option. Mint can also be preserved by soaking in oil.
These freezing methods allow for the enjoyment of mint throughout the year, whether for tea or cocktails. Using date labels can enhance the convenience of frozen mint preparations, ensuring that you always have fresh mint on hand when needed.
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