Can you freeze fresh peppers?
Can you freeze fresh peppers? Yes, you can freeze fresh chillies for about 10-12 months. You can freeze them whole or cut into pieces.
How to freeze whole fresh chillies?
If you want to freeze whole fresh peppers, here’s how:
- Start by rinsing the peppers under running water, then pat them dry with paper towel.
- Put the chiles in a resealable freezer bag.
- Seal the freezer bag tightly, pushing out as much air as possible.
- Label the freezer bag with the date and contents, then put the peppers in the freezer.
How to freeze fresh chillies cut into pieces?
If you’re used to using small amounts of fresh chiles, freezing them in chunks is a good option. Here’s how:
- Start by preparing your peppers. We recommend removing the seeds and the white membranes inside. Then, cut the peppers into pieces according to your usual use: slices, small dice or sticks.
- Spread the chile pieces out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure the pieces don’t touch each other. The idea is to pre-freeze each piece individually so they don’t stick together later. This will make it easier to defrost small portions. Put the baking sheet in the freezer for several hours.
- Once the chile pieces are completely frozen, remove the baking sheet from the freezer then transfer the pieces to a resealable freezer bag.
- Seal the freezer bag tightly, pushing out as much air as possible.
- Label the freezer bag with the date and contents, then return the chile pieces to the freezer.
How long do fresh chillies last in the freezer?
Fresh peppers will keep for about 10 to 12 months in the freezer. After this time, they will still be suitable for consumption but it is possible that they lose their flavor.
How to thaw fresh chillies?
If you have frozen fresh cut chiles, you do not need to thaw them. You can use them as they are in your dishes in the same way as fresh peppers.
On the other hand, if you have frozen whole fresh peppers, you must let them thaw before using them. We recommend that you put them in the fridge overnight.
Can you refreeze fresh peppers?
We do not recommend refreezing fresh peppers. Their flavor and texture may deteriorate significantly if you refreeze them.
Can you freeze any variety of peppers?
Yes, you can freeze any variety of peppers by following one of the two methods described above, be it red peppers, jalapeño peppers, poblano peppers, serrano peppers, habanero peppers , bird peppers or Espelette peppers.
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