Hey there, culinary explorers! Today, we’re diving into the fascinating world of kohlrabi. You know, that odd-looking, alien-like vegetable you’ve probably passed by at the farmers’ market a dozen times? Yup, that’s the one!
Besides its unique appearance, kohlrabi has a wonderful, nutty flavor that’s a fantastic addition to your meals.
But what if you’ve got a whole bunch of kohlrabi and can’t use it up in time? Ah, the age-old question of “Can you freeze it?” pops up.
Well, you’re in luck because today we’re talking all about freezing kohlrabi. Grab a coffee, or a kohlrabi smoothie if you’re feeling adventurous, and let’s get into it!
Can You Freeze Kohlrabi?
The short answer is a resounding, Yes, you can! Freezing is an excellent way to preserve the unique flavor and texture of kohlrabi.
Of course, there are a few tricks of the trade that you’ll want to know to freeze it like a pro, but don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Stick around for the detailed guide!
How To Freeze Kohlrabi?
Step 1: Choose the Right Kohlrabi
First things first, you’ll want to select kohlrabi that’s fresh, firm, and free from any blemishes. Trust me, fresher is better when it comes to freezing!
Step 2: Wash and Peel
Give your kohlrabi a good rinse under cold water to get rid of any dirt or debris. Then, peel the outer skin using a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife.
Step 3: Cut It Up
Slice the peeled kohlrabi into whatever shape you prefer. You can dice it, cut it into wedges, or even julienne it. This step is all about your personal preference and how you plan to use it later.
Step 4: Blanch
Blanching is the secret weapon in preserving the color, flavor, and nutritional value of your kohlrabi. To blanch, bring a large pot of water to a boil, toss in your kohlrabi pieces, and let them cook for about 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Ice Bath
After blanching, immediately transfer your kohlrabi into an ice bath. This halts the cooking process and prepares it for freezing.
Step 6: Drain and Dry
Once cooled, drain your kohlrabi pieces and pat them dry with a towel.
Step 7: Portion and Pack
Separate the kohlrabi into portion-sized amounts and pack them into airtight, freezer-safe bags. Squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Step 8: Label and Freeze
Don’t forget to label your bags with the date! Pop them in the freezer, and you’re good to go.
How Long Can You Freeze Kohlrabi?
When properly stored, frozen kohlrabi can last up to 12 months. However, for the best flavor and texture, I’d recommend using it within 6-9 months.
After that, you might start to notice some changes in its quality, but it will still be safe to eat.
How To Defrost Kohlrabi?
Defrosting kohlrabi isn’t a complex art, but there are a couple of methods you can choose from based on how you plan to use it.
Quick Method: Cook From Frozen
If you’re in a hurry, you can directly cook your frozen kohlrabi without thawing. This works particularly well for soups, stews, or stir-fries. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time to make sure it’s cooked through.
Traditional Method: Thaw in the Refrigerator
For dishes that require more precise cooking, like roasting or sautéing, you’ll want to thaw your kohlrabi first. Place the frozen kohlrabi in a bowl and let it thaw in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight. Once it’s thawed, drain any excess water and proceed with your recipe as usual.
Do Kohlrabi Freeze Well?
So, you might be wondering, does kohlrabi retain its charm after a stint in the freezer? The answer is: Yes, but with a caveat.
While the flavor of kohlrabi holds up really well when frozen, the texture can become a bit softer after thawing.
This makes it better suited for cooked applications rather than fresh uses like salads. But honestly, it’s still a fantastic way to enjoy this unique veggie year-round.
Can You Refreeze Kohlrabi?
The golden rule when it comes to refreezing any food is simple: Avoid it when you can.
Refreezing kohlrabi isn’t recommended because it can lead to a loss of flavor and an even mushier texture.
If you’ve thawed more kohlrabi than you can use, try to incorporate it into another dish that you can consume within a couple of days.
Creative Ways to Use Kohlrabi
Just because kohlrabi is a bit unconventional doesn’t mean you can’t have some serious fun with it. Here are some creative ideas for using both fresh and frozen kohlrabi:
- Kohlrabi Fries: Slice your kohlrabi into sticks, season them with your favorite spices, and roast them for a low-carb alternative to potato fries.
- Creamy Kohlrabi Soup: Use your frozen kohlrabi to make a delectable, creamy soup. Just blend it up with some onions, garlic, and a dash of cream.
- Kohlrabi Slaw: While this is best done with fresh kohlrabi, a thawed, well-drained version can still make a crunchy and refreshing slaw.
- Stir-fried Kohlrabi: Throw some frozen kohlrabi into a stir-fry with other veggies and your protein of choice. A dash of soy sauce and some ginger can really make it pop!
Conclusion
There you have it, folks! Freezing kohlrabi is not only doable but also a wonderful way to keep enjoying this versatile vegetable long after its season has passed.
With the right techniques, you’ll have kohlrabi ready to go for all kinds of culinary adventures.
So the next time you pass by kohlrabi at the market, don’t hesitate to stock up—you now know how to make the most of it!
FAQ
Can You Freeze Kohlrabi Leaves?
Yes, you can! Kohlrabi leaves can be frozen just like other greens such as spinach or kale. It’s best to blanch them first for about 1-2 minutes, then proceed with the same freezing steps as the kohlrabi bulb.
What Is the Nutritional Value of Kohlrabi?
Kohlrabi is a powerhouse of nutrients! It’s rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. It’s also low in calories, making it a great choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.
Can I Use Frozen Kohlrabi for Juicing?
Absolutely, frozen kohlrabi works just fine for juicing. However, it’s a good idea to thaw it a little before tossing it into your juicer.
Does Freezing Affect Kohlrabi’s Nutritional Content?
Freezing preserves most of the nutrients in kohlrabi. While there might be a small loss of certain vitamins, it’s generally negligible.
Can You Freeze Kohlrabi Whole?
While it’s possible, I wouldn’t recommend it. Freezing kohlrabi whole can result in a very mushy texture once thawed. It’s best to cut it into smaller pieces for more even freezing and better texture retention.
Is Kohlrabi Good for Weight Loss?
Yes, kohlrabi is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great addition to any weight loss diet. It’s also rich in nutrients, so it’s a win-win!
