Thrift shoppers at the supermarket often find themselves buying too many vegetables products. While vegetables such as green beans and Brussels sprouts can be frozen without any prior preparations, some require a delicate and timed procedure if buyers want to preserve them; radish is a good example for the latter. So, is it possible to freeze radishes?
Quick Answer
Many people encounter this dilemma, especially during peak seasons. Fortunately, freezing radishes is possible. In fact, in other countries, they have already been practicing this method of preservation, and most of them follow the same procedure and preparation technique.
Freezing radishes is a good way to preserve it for an indefinite period. However, freezing them does not follow the same process as freezing other goods. Since radishes are water-holders, freezing them would be more meticulous.
Can You Freeze Radishes?
Although freezing radishes is a good preservation technique, it is not without consequences. It will definitely change the radish in one way or another.
Freezing radishes diminish the richness in taste and alters its texture. But biting into one after it has been thawed and cooked can still provide the satisfaction.
Freezing radishes can make it last indefinitely. However, take into account that spoilage and loss of nutrients are only stalled, not stopped.
Therefore, freezing radishes significantly reduces the quality of its anti-oxidant properties, vitamins, and nutrients. As such, it is always better to consume radishes while it is still fresh.
Also, while freezing a radish may seem simple, a single mistake can ultimately destroy its quality. Specifically, peeling it before freezing will activate the enzymes that will cause the radish to burst. Thus, it is important to make sure that the peel stays intact before freezing.
Nonetheless, freezing a radish is a good technique, and with good initial vegetable quality and ample preparation before freezing, it will maintain its decent quality.
How to Freeze Radishes?
Freezing a radish is meticulous enough that one needs to follow strict rules to maintain optimal quality. The basic guidelines to freezing a radish are as follows:
- Scrub the radish in cold water to remove dirt and other residue
- Cut the ends of the radish, but never peel; this is essential to maintain its texture and quality while it freezes
- Cut the radish into medallions
- Blanch the medallions in hot, boiling water for 2 to 3 minutes; this will ensure that the nutrients stay fresh longer and will stall the decaying process for an extended period
- After blanching for 2-3 minutes, soak the radish medallions into cold water immediately, preferably with ice chunks; this will seal the blanching-activated enzymes in the radish and retain the vitamins and nutrients longer
- Afterwards, choose a freezing container; make sure that it is moisture-resistant and airtight to attain the full benefit of freezing
- Place the blanched radishes in the freezing container and put it in the freezer.
How To Use Up Extra/Leftover Radishes?
Radishes are a crunchy and flavorful vegetable that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. But what do you do when you have extra radishes? Here are five delicious ways to use up your leftover radishes:
- Make roasted radishes – Roasted radishes are a simple and delicious way to enjoy this veggie. Just toss them in some olive oil and sea salt, and roast in the oven at 400 degrees for 20 minutes.
- Add them to a salad – Radishes make a great addition to any salad. Just slice them up and add them to your greens for a crunchy and flavorful twist.
- Make pickled radishes – Pickled radishes are a tasty treat that can be enjoyed on their own or as an addition to a dish. To make pickled radishes, you will need 1 cup of white vinegar, 1 cup of water, 1/2 cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 2 cups of sliced radishes. Simply combine the vinegar, water, sugar, and salt in a pot and bring to a boil. Add the radishes and let sit for 30 minutes. Drain the radishes and store in a jar in the refrigerator.
- puree them into a soup – Radishes can also be used to make a delicious soup. Just add them to a blender with some chicken broth and puree until smooth. Then, add your favorite vegetables and enjoy.
- Make radish chips – Radish chips are a healthy and delicious alternative to traditional potato chips. To make radish chips, you will need 1 pound of radishes, 1 Tablespoon of olive oil, and 1 teaspoon of sea salt. Simply slice the radishes thinly and toss with the olive oil and salt. Then, bake in the oven at 400 degrees for 20 minutes.
So there you have it – five delicious ways to use up your leftover radishes. Next time you find yourself with extra veggies, try one of these recipes and enjoy!
Radish Recipes
Musaengchae (Radish Salad)
Musaengchae is a Radish salad made of Korean radish coated in salt and vinegar and flavored with minced cloves of garlic and onion leeks. Fans of spicy food can add hot chili flakes for a spicy Musaengchae.
Roasted Radish
This recipe is an oven-roasted, freshly-picked radish covered in garlic, onion and olive oil. People can use a variety of radishes for making roasted radishes, but the smallest ones make for a bite-sized snack.
Mullangi Tomato Kura (Radish Tomato Curry)
Mullangi Tomato Kura is an Indian delicacy that focuses on radish as its main ingredient. It follows the same procedure as preparing a classic Indian curry, but the radish adds a distinct taste and flavor to this variant.
Wrap Up
Yes, you can freeze radishes. Frozen radishes will last for 4-6 months in the freezer if stored properly. Here is how to do it: remove the leaves, wash and dry them well, cut into cubes or slices. Do not forget to label your bag with today’s date!
Now that you know how to freeze your radishes, please share your experience with me in the comment section below. What will you use your frozen radishes for?