The Australian Women’s Weekly Food

Easy freezy

The secret to prep perfection is at your fingertips in the kitchen. If slow-cooked casseroles, curries and hearty winter soups have become meals saved solely for the weekends, there is a way to make them everyday options. The secret lies in the kitchen freezer. With a bit of preparation, and some handy hints, you can cook your favourite recipes in advance, freeze them, thaw them and then reheat them at your convenience. Here are our top tips to make the most of your frozen assets.

STORING

Correct storage of frozen meals is an important factor in ensuring the food tastes as good as it did on the day it was made.

AIRTIGHT containers and sealable bags are essential. Expel as much air as possible, but leave a gap at the top so liquids can expand as they freeze.

WHEN freezing a homemade hot dish, it’s important to let it cool slightly before covering and placing it in the fridge to cool properly. After the food has cooled, place it in the freezer.

NEVER use glass bottles or containers when freezing, as they are likely to break. Plastic containers are best, as they can be transferred easily between the freezer and microwave. Or if reheating in an oven, disposable foil baking trays are best for baking and freezing.

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