In this guide, we're going over all the steps for freezing cauliflower. You'll find detailed directions on how to freeze cauliflower the right way and answers to common questions to get you started.
Can You Freeze Cauliflower?
Quick Answer: Yes, freezing cauliflower is a great way to preserve it if you can't get to it in time. However, it's not a good idea to just put a head of raw cauliflower in the freezer. A few simple steps will guarantee great flavor and texture.
Read also: Vegan Grocery List for Beginners.
Directions for Freezing Cauliflower
First, clean the cauliflower well. This can be done in a bowl of water—just swish the cauliflower around in the water to loosen any dirt, then rinse under running water.
If the cauliflower looks pretty clean already, rinsing it under cool water will likely be enough.
Next, remove the green leaves and cut the cauliflower into small or medium florets, depending on how large you want them to be when you cook them later.
Step 2 - Set up a Blanching Station and Ice Bath
Blanching is the most important step in preserving the overall quality of the cauliflower. It stops the enzymes from breaking the cauliflower down and ruining the texture and taste.
To get your blanching station ready, fill a pot with water and put it on the stove to bring to a boil. Then grab a large bowl and fill it with lots of ice and cold water.
Step 3 - Blanch the Cauliflower
When the water on the stove has reached a rolling boil, use a slotted spoon to lower the cauliflower florets into the water.
Leave the cauliflower in the pot for up to five minutes for larger pieces. Small pieces will probably take three or four.
Step 4 - Cool the Cauliflower in the Ice Bath
Using your slotted spoon or straining in a colander, take the cauliflower out of the boiling water when it's ready and pop it into the ice bath.
Chilling the cauliflower will stop it from cooking further and turning mushy. After a few minutes, it'll be good to go.
Giving the cauliflower enough time to air dry is part of making sure that it won't get freezer burned.
Leaving it in the colander to drain for ten or so minutes after you've taken it out of the ice bath is all you need to do.
Step 6 - Portion and Freeze the Cauliflower
You're on the last step! Divide the cauliflower florets into the portions you think you'll be needing in the future and then seal them in plastic freezer bags or freezer-safe containers.
The trick is to seal them tightly and try to get as much air out as possible. This is easy to do with freezer bags, but the best way to go about it with lidded containers is to fill them up all the way. This will leave no room for excess air.
That's all there is to it!
Not quite sure how to cut into a head of cauliflower? There are actually several different ways to do it, but this video is going to show you one easy way:
Hey, I’m Joey. I’ve been cooking since I was a little kid and love everything about it. You can find my writing about food, kitchen appliances (such as blenders) and much more. Thanks for stopping by!
