Have you ever dreamed of prepping two weeks of meals in just a few hours? If so, then this meal prep method is one that you'll love. By prepping your meals beforehand and storing them in the freezer, you can spend less, waste less, eat smarter and save a whole bunch of time! Now, if you're wondering what in the world is freezer cooking? Let us explain. Simply, freezer cooking is freezing meals or pre-prepped ingredients ahead of time to make mealtimes more manageable. Like other meal prep methods, freezer cooking is often done in bulk, and can save you a lot of time. When first starting, it's easiest to begin by simply doubling a recipe that you're already making. Eat one serving immediately and freeze the second serving for later. Once you become more familiar with this method of meal prepping, you can then start planning your meals ahead of time, cook in bulk and then not have to cook from scratch again for several weeks!
If freezer cooking doesn't sound like a new idea to you, it's because it's not! We're sure that you've indulged in a frozen pizza or meal from time to time. And why not? Frozen meals are easy, tasty and convenient. By making freezer meals, you can create that store-bought convenience in your own home with healthy, wholesome ingredients that you choose. The best part of this meal prep method is that you have complete control over what goes into your food. Ditch the extra sugars, preservatives and processed ingredients and make meals that your entire family will enjoy. When done right, freezer meals are a great way to revamp your weekly menu while spending less time in the kitchen. To ensure that you're successful throughout your meal-prepping process, our freezer meal experts have put together a list of freezer meal prep of "Do's and Don'ts."
Do you love smoothies like this Chai-na-na Smoothie, but never know what fruits and veggies to combine? If this is the case, then we recommend scouting out delicious recipes beforehand. Setting aside time to choose a few yummy smoothie recipes to make for the week will not only save you time, but it can also help you save money when grocery shopping. Knowing what ingredients and the quantity of each, that you'll need to make your weekly smoothie can help prevent you from overstocking on fruits and veggies. When it comes to freezer prepping smoothies and other vegetable and fruit-based meals, it is best to freeze these ingredients in a separate bag from the rest. The truth is, when fruits and veggies are left to sit with or soak in other ingredients while thawing, it doesn't result in the best taste or texture. By keeping these ingredients separate from the rest, you can ensure that your freezer meals always taste fresh and delicious!
Liquid foods like soups and sauces are best stored in freezer bags. When making a soup like this Creamy Lentil Soup to store in the freezer, it is recommended that you allow it to cool completely before placing it in the freezer. Doing so will lessen the chance of your soup getting freezer burn, plus youll avoid raising the temperature of your freezer and partially thawing other foods. Once the soup is completely cool, carefully pour your soup into a freezer bag. Storing liquids in bags will make these meals easier to access and is a great way to save space. Additionally, when freezing sauces like tomato sauce or barbeque sauce, the same method should be followed.
A quick tip: If a freezer soup recipe calls for cooked vegetables in the soup, it is best to undercook the vegetables a bit. This way, when you thaw and reheat your soup, you won't end up overcooking your veggies!
Craving a comfort food classic? Then we have the perfect recipe for you! This 13 Bean Chili is the ideal meal to enjoy at your next backyard barbeque or serve alongside tasty appetizers on game day. Easy to make and full of healthy ingredients, this recipe combines our 13 Bean Soup Mix with garlic, onion, chili powder and ground beef to create a mouthwatering chili that everyone will love. Eat as is, use it as a topping on freshly grilled chili dogs, or pair with a fresh load of cornbread for a delicious homemade meal.
