Can You Freeze Mangetout? 7 Best Ways To Use
Mangetout, also known as snow peas, are a type of edible podded pea that is often used in Asian cuisine and salads.
The purpose of this article is to explore whether mangetout can be frozen, and if so, how to properly freeze and thaw them for optimal results.
We will also discuss the benefits and drawbacks of freezing mangetout and offer tips for cooking with frozen mangetout.
Can You Freeze Mangetout?
Yes, mangetout can be frozen, but it is important to follow proper freezing techniques to ensure that the texture and flavor are preserved.
Benefits of freezing mangetout
There are several benefits to freezing mangetout. It allows for long-term storage, which can be helpful if you have a surplus of mangetout that you would like to preserve.
Additionally, frozen mangetout can be a convenient ingredient to have on hand for quick and easy meal preparation.
Drawbacks of freezing mangetout
However, there are also some drawbacks to freezing mangetout. When frozen, the texture of the mangetout can become slightly mushy, which may not be desirable for some dishes.
Additionally, the freezing process can cause some loss of flavor, particularly if the mangetout is not frozen quickly enough.
Overall, if you follow proper freezing techniques, the benefits of freezing mangetout can outweigh the drawbacks, and you can enjoy their sweet and tender taste even after they have been frozen.
II. What are mangetout?
Mangetout, also known as snow peas, are a type of pea that are harvested before the peas inside have fully developed. This means that the entire pod, including the peas inside, can be eaten. They are typically flat and have a bright green color, with a slightly sweet and tender taste.
Different varieties of mangetout
Mangetout are often used in Asian cuisine, particularly in stir-fries and salads, and can also be enjoyed raw as a snack or in vegetable platters.
There are several different varieties of mangetout, including the dwarf gray sugar pea, golden sweet pea, and the sugar snap pea. Each variety has a slightly different flavor and texture, but all can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes.
How to freeze mangetout
The steps to follow when freezing mangetout
- Wash the mangetout thoroughly in cold water and remove any stems or tough strings along the edges.
- Blanch the mangetout by boiling them in salted water for 1-2 minutes, depending on the size of the pods.
- Prepare an ice water bath by filling a bowl with ice and water.
- Remove the mangetout from the boiling water and immediately submerge them in the ice water bath to stop the cooking process.
- Once the mangetout have cooled, drain them and pat them dry with a clean towel or paper towel.
- Pack the mangetout into airtight freezer bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing the bags.
There are two common methods for freezing mangetout: the tray freezing method and the flash freezing method.
The different freezing methods for mangetout
The tray freezing method involves placing the blanched mangetout in a single layer on a baking sheet or tray and freezing them until they are firm.
Once they are firm, transfer them to airtight freezer bags. This method can be helpful in preventing the mangetout from clumping together in the freezer.
The flash freezing method involves placing the blanched mangetout in a single layer on a baking sheet or tray and freezing them for a short period of time, such as 30 minutes, until they are partially frozen. Once they are partially frozen, transfer them to airtight freezer bags.
This method can be helpful in preserving the texture of the mangetout.
How to thaw frozen mangetout
Steps to follow when thawing frozen mangetout
To thaw frozen mangetout, follow these steps:
- Remove the desired amount of mangetout from the freezer bag and place them in a colander or strainer.
- Rinse the mangetout under cold running water to thaw them out and remove any ice crystals.
- Once they are thawed, pat them dry with a clean towel or paper towel.
Different thawing methods for mangetout
There are two common methods for thawing frozen mangetout: the refrigerator method and the microwave method.
Refrigerator method
The refrigerator method involves placing the frozen mangetout in the refrigerator and allowing them to thaw slowly over several hours or overnight.
This method can help preserve the texture of the mangetout, but it requires more time.
Microwave method.
The microwave method involves placing the frozen mangetout in a microwave-safe dish and microwaving them on the defrost setting for 1-2 minutes, or until they are thawed.
This method is quicker than the refrigerator method, but it can cause the mangetout to become slightly softer.
It is important to avoid thawing mangetout at room temperature, as this can increase the risk of bacterial growth and spoilage.
Cooking with frozen mangetout
The best ways to cook with frozen mangetout
Cooking with frozen mangetout is easy, and there are several ways to use them in various dishes. Here are some tips for cooking with frozen mangetout:
Add them to stir-fries:
Frozen mangetout are a great addition to stir-fries. Simply add them to the pan along with other vegetables and protein.
Use them in salads:
Frozen mangetout can be thawed and used in salads, providing a sweet and crunchy texture.
Add them to soups:
Frozen mangetout can be added to soups to provide extra flavor and nutrients.
Saute them as a side dish:
Frozen mangetout can be thawed and sauteed with garlic and butter for a simple and delicious side dish.
Provide some recipe ideas
Here are some recipe ideas that incorporate frozen mangetout:
Stir-Fry with Mangetout, Beef, and Broccoli:
This stir-fry combines frozen mangetout with tender beef and broccoli for a delicious and easy meal.
Mangetout and Mango Salad:
This salad incorporates frozen mangetout, mango, and red pepper for a sweet and tangy flavor.
Mangetout and Mushroom Soup:
This creamy soup is made with frozen mangetout, mushrooms, and onions for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Garlic and Butter Mangetout:
This simple side dish features frozen mangetout sauteed in garlic and butter for a flavorful and easy side dish.
The freezing guidelines for mangetout:
| Item | Can You Freeze? | How to Freeze | How to Thaw |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mangetout (whole) | Yes | Blanch in boiling water for 2 minutes, cool in ice water, pat dry, and transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. | Remove from the freezer and place in the refrigerator for several hours until thawed, or blanch in boiling water for 1-2 minutes. |
| Mangetout (sliced) | Yes | Blanch in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, cool in ice water, pat dry, and transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. | Remove from the freezer and place in the refrigerator for several hours until thawed, or use in cooking directly from frozen. |
| Cooked Mangetout | Yes | Allow to cool to room temperature, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. | Remove from the freezer and place in the refrigerator for several hours until thawed, or use in cooking directly from frozen. |
How long can frozen mangetout last?
Shelf life of frozen mangetout
Frozen mangetout can last up to 8-12 months in the freezer if properly stored. However, the quality and texture of the mangetout may deteriorate over time, so it is best to use them within 6 months for optimal flavor and texture.
How to store frozen mangetout
To store frozen mangetout, place them in airtight freezer bags or containers, removing as much air as possible before sealing. It is important to label the bags or containers with the date of freezing to keep track of their shelf life.
Store the frozen mangetout in the coldest part of the freezer, such as the back or bottom of the freezer. Avoid storing them in the freezer door, as the temperature can fluctuate and affect the quality of the mangetout.
When thawing and using the frozen mangetout, it is important to use them immediately after thawing and avoid refreezing them. Refreezing can cause the mangetout to lose their texture and flavor.
Conclusion
In summary, mangetout can be frozen, and it is a great way to preserve them for later use. However, freezing can affect the texture and flavor of the mangetout, and it is important to follow the proper freezing and thawing methods to maintain their quality.
Here are the key points to remember:
- Mangetout can be frozen for up to 8-12 months.
- To freeze mangetout, blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then shock them in ice water before drying and freezing.
- To thaw frozen mangetout, rinse them under cold water or thaw them in the refrigerator or microwave.
- Use frozen mangetout in stir-fries, salads, soups, and as a side dish.
- Store frozen mangetout in airtight freezer bags or containers, and avoid refreezing them.
To get the best results, it is recommended to use fresh mangetout whenever possible, but if you need to freeze them, follow the steps outlined in this article to ensure their quality is preserved.