Q. We often have meals that must be used up on the finish of the week. I HATE throwing it away, however don’t have any concepts for find out how to use it. Do you’ve any ideas?
A. Within the U.S., it’s estimated that 30-40% of the meals provide is wasted, so what you do at dwelling could make a distinction to the surroundings and your meals price range. Fairly than let the meals go to waste, attempt these tips for prepping and freezing produce, dairy and even eggs.
Bananas: Bananas aren’t the longest-lasting fruit within the bowl, however that’s okay. You’ll be able to put them within the fridge to assist them final about 5 days longer (the skins will flip brown, however the fruit continues to be good). It’s also possible to use them to bake banana bread or muffins, then freeze the baked items for later. No time for that? Simply peel the bananas, freeze them in a freezer bag, and save the baking, smoothies or snacks for if you get again.
Berries: Berries and different ripe fruit go from scrumptious to spoiled rapidly. Fear not. Shortly mix the fruit and freeze the puree in an ice dice tray. As soon as frozen, retailer the cubes in a freezer bag till you’re able to make smoothies or sauces. For an excellent simpler save, wash and freeze to make use of on cereal, oatmeal, and yogurt.
Greens & Herbs: Leafy greens and herbs resembling spinach, arugula, and basil will certainly wilt over time. Rescue them by turning them right into a flavor-packed pesto. Bundle together with frozen fruits for a smoothie pack.
Milk: In case your milk goes to run out quickly, make and freeze pudding earlier than you permit — 4-ounce mason jars are nice for freezing individually portioned puddings.
Yogurt: Like milk, yogurt may also be used to make scrumptious and freezable treats. Use no matter taste or sort of yogurt it’s important to make creamy frozen pops. Bonus: add in fruit for a double save.
All of the Veggies: Greens like potatoes, onions and beets can final for months, however veggies like broccoli, cauliflower, asparagus, bell peppers and Brussels sprouts might not final every week. You’ll be able to roast or grill an enormous batch of no matter veggies are hanging round within the fridge. Then freeze them for later. Reheated roasted or grilled veggies are nice for including to omelets, egg bakes, or soups.
Eggs: Do you know you’ll be able to freeze eggs? Simply crack open the eggs right into a bowl, whisk to mix, then pour the egg combination right into a freezer bag labeled with the date and quantity of eggs in every. We advocate freezing 2 to three eggs per bag since most recipes name for this quantity. To thaw, place the bag within the fridge in a single day. An alternative choice is to make egg muffins (suppose omelet, however in a muffin type) and freeze these.