Freezing is a great way to preserve food and extend its shelf life. However, not all foods are suitable for the freezer, and some will not only lose their texture and flavor but also can become unsafe to eat.
Here are 5 foods that you should keep out of the freezer:.
Eggs in the shell
While egg whites and yolks can be frozen separately, whole eggs in their shells should not be frozen because they can explode due to the expansion of the liquid inside.
If you need to freeze eggs, crack them open first and separate the whites from the yolks. Beat them and pour them into a container with an airtight lid.
Canned foods
Most canned foods have been cooked and preserved at high temperatures, so they are already shelf-stable. Freezing canned foods can cause the can to burst or the food inside to have an off flavor and texture.
Instead of freezing canned foods, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct light.
Cream-based soups and sauces
Cream-based soups and sauces, such as clam chowder or Alfredo sauce, are made with heavy cream or milk. Freezing them can cause the dairy to separate and become grainy when reheated.
If you want to freeze soups or sauces, opt for ones made with broth or tomato-based.
Raw garlic
Raw garlic can quickly lose its flavor and aroma when frozen. It can also develop a rubbery texture or become mushy when thawed. Instead of freezing raw garlic, store it in a cool, dry place away from light and moisture.
Fried foods
Fried foods, such as chicken wings or fries, can become soggy when frozen and reheated. The moisture from the food can make the breading or coating lose its crunchiness.
Instead of freezing fried foods, enjoy them fresh or store them in the refrigerator for a few days.
Conclusion
While freezing is a great way to preserve food, it’s essential to know what foods work and what don’t. Trying to freeze these five foods could result in a disappointing outcome.
So, keep these foods out of the freezer and find alternative ways to store them to maintain the quality and flavor.