Can you freeze cilantro? The answer is a resounding yes! Cilantro, with its vibrant flavor and aroma, is a staple in many kitchens around the world. Whether you use it in salsas, curries, or as a garnish, having a supply of fresh - tasting cilantro all year round can significantly elevate your dishes. However, to preserve as much of its delicious flavor as possible, it's crucial to follow the right strategies for freezing this verdant herb.

Let's first understand why freezing cilantro is a great idea. Fresh cilantro has a relatively short shelf life. Once you bring it home from the grocery store or harvest it from your garden, it starts to wilt and lose its flavor within a few days. By freezing it, you can extend its lifespan and have it readily available whenever you need it. This is especially useful during seasons when fresh cilantro might not be as easily accessible or is more expensive.

Freezing Cilantro Leaves As - Is

One of the simplest ways to freeze cilantro is to freeze the leaves as they are. Start by thoroughly washing the cilantro bunch under cold running water. This helps remove any dirt, debris, or pesticides that might be present on the leaves. After washing, gently shake off the excess water. You can also use a clean kitchen towel or a salad spinner to dry the leaves more effectively. A well - dried cilantro will freeze better and prevent the formation of ice crystals that can damage the leaves and affect the flavor.

Once the cilantro is dry, take the leaves off the stems. You can do this by holding the top of the stem with one hand and running your other hand down the stem in the opposite direction of the leaf growth. This will easily strip the leaves. Place the leaves in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure the leaves are not touching each other. Then, put the baking sheet in the freezer for a few hours until the leaves are completely frozen. This process, known as flash - freezing, helps to preserve the individual leaves and prevents them from clumping together.

After the leaves are frozen, transfer them to a freezer - safe bag or an airtight container. Label the container with the date of freezing so you can keep track of its freshness. When you need to use the frozen cilantro leaves, simply take out the amount you need and put the rest back in the freezer. These frozen leaves can be added directly to your cooking without thawing, making them a convenient addition to soups, stews, and stir - fries.

Making Cilantro Cubes

Another excellent way to freeze cilantro is by making cilantro cubes. There are two popular methods for this: using oil or making a pesto.

Cilantro Cubes with Oil

To make cilantro cubes with oil, start by chopping the cilantro leaves finely. You can use a sharp knife or a food processor for this task. Once the cilantro is chopped, place it in an ice - cube tray. Pour a little bit of oil, such as olive oil or coconut oil, over the chopped cilantro in each cube of the tray. The oil helps to preserve the flavor of the cilantro and also makes it easier to remove the cubes from the tray. Fill the cubes about three - quarters full with the cilantro - oil mixture. Then, put the ice - cube tray in the freezer until the cubes are solid.

Once the cubes are frozen, pop them out of the tray and store them in a freezer - safe bag or container. These cilantro - oil cubes are perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your dishes. You can use them in salad dressings, marinades, or even in homemade mayonnaise. The oil in the cubes also helps to distribute the flavor more evenly in the dish.

Cilantro Pesto Cubes

Making cilantro pesto cubes is a bit more involved but equally rewarding. In addition to cilantro, you'll need garlic, nuts (such as pine nuts or walnuts), Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Start by combining the cilantro, garlic, and nuts in a food processor. Pulse a few times until the ingredients are coarsely chopped. Then, with the food processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil until you get a smooth, creamy consistency. Add the Parmesan cheese and pulse a few more times to incorporate it into the pesto.

Pour the cilantro pesto into an ice - cube tray and freeze it. Once the cubes are frozen, transfer them to a freezer - safe container. These pesto cubes are a versatile addition to your cooking. You can use them to top pasta, spread on bread, or mix into mashed potatoes for a delicious and fresh - tasting twist.

In conclusion, freezing cilantro is a great way to ensure that you always have access to this flavorful herb. Whether you choose to freeze the leaves as - is or make cilantro cubes, following these strategies will help you keep as much of the fresh flavor as possible. So, the next time you have an abundance of cilantro, don't let it go to waste. Freeze it and enjoy the taste of fresh cilantro in your dishes all year long.