Freezer burn is actually dehydration of the food, which destroys cell structure and ruins the texture and flavor. So invest in freezer wrap, markers, and thick freezer bags to ensure everything stays in top condition. If you just own a kitchen refrigerator/freezer, keeping things organized is even more important because of reduced space. I like to designate one shelf for each type of product, so organization is easier.
It's a good idea to keep a notebook or pad near your chest freezer or kitchen freezer to write down what's actually in that appliance. Then you can rotate items and keep track of all your advance planning so recipes are a snap.
Freezer Items
- Frozen Meatballs
I rely so much on frozen fully cooked meatballs. The brand I buy, Armour, is wonderfully flavored, with a tender texture. I never make my own meatballs anymore! Buy the 10 lb. size if you use them a lot, and be sure to tightly reseal the bag after use. - Meats
All meats should be well wrapped in thick, high quality freezer wrap. These foods are most susceptible to freezer burn. If you buy ground beef, make thin patties before you freeze, and store them separated by parchment paper, so they thaw more quickly. I keep pork chops, ground beef, stew meat, turkey tenderloins, and salmon steaks and fillets. - Chicken
Frozen fully cooked chicken, diced and in strips, flash-frozen boneless, skinless chicken breasts, flavored ready-to-cook chicken breasts, breaded chicken patties and chunks are my favorites. Remember that you should never thaw and refreeze meats. - Vegetables
The quality of frozen vegetables is really excellent. I depend on whole leaf spinach, baby early peas, corn, broccoli, asparagus, bell pepper stir fry, hash brown potatoes and other potato products, and vegetable mixes. Take some time every month to browse through your grocer's freezer section; new combinations of veggies are constantly being developed. - Fruits
I like loose pack blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, peaches, cranberries, and raspberries. - Frozen Pasta
Favorites in this category include make your own meals and wrap them in individual portions, to be reheated in the microwave. - Vegetarian Products
I simply love soy protein crumbles. I use that product much more often than ground beef because the flavor and texture are wonderful, and it's easier to work with. Soy-based patties that look like chicken nuggets are also very good. I honestly can't tell the difference between it and the real thing.
Now go to the next page to learn how to stock your refrigerator.
