Okra is one of those vegetables that you may not be sure what to do with. Can you freeze it? What will happen to the texture? Read on to find out everything you need to know about freezing okra!
Quick Answer
Yes, you can freeze okra. Frozen okra will retain its taste and texture but it may become a little mushy after being frozen. It should last in the freezer for about two months.
Can You Freeze Okra?
Can you freeze okra? The answer is yes, but there are some things to consider when doing so. When frozen, okra will lose some of its flavor and texture. How long it will last in the freezer depends on how it is frozen – either whole or sliced. Whole okra will last for about 10 months, while sliced okra will only last for about 3-4 months.
How To Freeze Okra?
Freezing okra is a great way to preserve this healthy vegetable for later use. Here are the simple steps to follow:
1. Rinse the okra and pat it dry.
2. Cut the okra into 1-inch slices.
3. Spread the slices out on a baking sheet and freeze for about 2 hours, or until solid.
4. Transfer the frozen slices to a labeled zip-top bag and store in the freezer.
5. To cook, thaw the frozen okra in the fridge overnight or on the counter for a few hours, then cook as desired.
Precautions to Take When Freezing Okra
When freezing okra, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure the okra is clean and free of any dirt or debris. Cut off the stem and slice the okra into 1-inch pieces. blanch the sliced okra for 2 minutes in boiling water, then cool in ice water. Finally, pack the okra into freezer bags or containers and freeze. When you’re ready to use it, just thaw and cook as usual.
How To Thaw Frozen Okra
Okra that has been frozen can be thawed in a number of ways. The most common method is to simply place the frozen okra in a bowl of cold water. You can also thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or for a few hours before cooking. If you’re in a hurry, you can even cook frozen okra without thawing it first. Simply cut off the ends, slice it into pieces, and cook as usual.
How Long Does Okra Last (Stays Fresh) Outside at Room Temperature?
Okra will last anywhere from 3 days to a week if stored correctly. Make sure to store okra in a tightly sealed container in the fridge. If you don’t have room in your fridge, you can store it in the vegetable drawer. It’s also safe to leave okra out at room temperature for up to 2 days.
How Long Does Okra Last (Stays Fresh) in the Fridge?
Okra will last in the fridge for about four to five days. It’s best to store it in a perforated bag or container so that air can circulate.
It’s important to remember that okra is a perishable vegetable, and should not be stored at room temperature for an extended period of time. When left out at room temperature, okra will start to decay and produce mold. So if you’re not going to eat it within a few days, it’s best to freeze it.
How To Use Up Extra/Leftover Okra?
Ideas, list:
1. Slice it and add it to a salad.
2. Sauté it with some onion and garlic and serve over rice or pasta.
3. Add it to a soup or stew.
4. Make a quick okra stir-fry.
5. Bake it into an omelet or frittata.
6. Fry up some okra fritters.
7. Make gumbo!
