When it comes to long-term food storage, there’s no denying the benefits of freeze drying. Not only does it preserve nutrients and flavors, but it also allows for a significant reduction in storage space. But what about when you’re looking to make mealtime more interesting? That’s where creative recipes come in! In this article, we’ll be exploring 19 unique and delicious recipes that showcase the versatility of freeze drying. From sweet treats like Freeze-Dried Strawberry Yogurt Bites and Freeze-Dried Banana Ice Cream Slices, to savory meals like Crunchy Freeze-Dried Apple Chips and Freez
Freeze-Dried Strawberry Yogurt Bites
Freeze-Dried Strawberry Yogurt Bites Recipe
These bite-sized treats are perfect for a healthy snack or dessert. By freeze-drying yogurt and strawberries, we preserve the natural flavors and textures while adding a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries (see note)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together the yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Fold in the freeze-dried strawberries.
3. Spoon small portions of the mixture onto parchment paper or a silicone mat.
4. Freeze for at least 30 minutes to set.
5. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Note: To make your own freeze-dried strawberries, puree fresh strawberries with a little water and spread on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then blend into a powder using a food processor or blender.
Cooking Time: None (freezing required)
Crunchy Freeze-Dried Apple Chips
Freeze-drying apples creates a crispy, sweet, and healthy snack that’s perfect for on-the-go. This recipe transforms fresh apple slices into crunchy chips that are bursting with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 apples (any variety), sliced into thin rounds
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat your freeze dryer or a food dehydrator to its lowest temperature setting (usually around 135°F).
2. In a bowl, mix together apple slices, lemon juice, and salt.
3. Load the apple mixture onto the freeze dryer trays or dehydrator racks in a single layer.
4. Freeze dry or dehydrate for 12-15 hours, or until the apples reach your desired level of crispiness.
5. Once done, remove from the freeze dryer or dehydrator and let cool completely.
6. Break into smaller pieces and enjoy your crunchy apple chips!
Cooking Time: 12-15 hours
Freeze-Dried Vegetable Soup Mix
This recipe brings together a medley of freeze-dried vegetables to create a hearty and comforting soup mix that’s perfect for a quick and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon freeze-dried vegetable blend (containing carrots, green beans, peas, corn, and onions)
– 2 cups water
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the freeze-dried vegetable blend and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the vegetables rehydrate.
3. Add the dried thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Freeze-Dried Beef Jerky Strips
Make your own delicious freeze-dried beef jerky strips at home with this easy recipe. Perfect for snacking on the go or as a protein-packed addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (top round or flank steak)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to its lowest temperature setting (usually around 150°F).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the beef strips to the marinade and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lay out the marinated beef strips in a single layer.
5. Freeze-dry the beef strips according to your oven’s instructions (usually around 6-8 hours).
6. Once freeze-dried, cut the jerky into strips and store in an airtight container.
Cooking Time:
– Marinade time: 4 hours or overnight
– Oven time: 6-8 hours (depending on oven model)
Freeze-Dried Banana Ice Cream Slices
A creamy and healthy dessert that’s perfect for hot summer days or as a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Freeze-drying equipment (optional)
Instructions:
1. Peel the bananas and place them in a blender or food processor.
2. Add the heavy cream, honey, and blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container or ice cube tray.
4. Place the container or tray in the freezer and let it freeze for at least 2 hours.
5. Once frozen, remove from the freezer and cut into slices.
6. If desired, use freeze-drying equipment to dry the banana ice cream slices.
Cooking Time:
– Freezing time: at least 2 hours
– Freeze-drying time (optional): varies depending on equipment
Note: For best results, use ripe bananas that are still slightly firm. This recipe is perfect for those who want a healthier dessert option or as a fun and unique snack.
Freeze-Dried Herbs for Seasoning
Preserve fresh herbs with a simple freeze-drying process to create flavorful, crumbly seasonings perfect for soups, stews, and more.
Ingredients:
– Fresh herbs of your choice (e.g., thyme, rosemary, oregano)
– Airtight containers or freezer bags
Instructions:
1. Harvest fresh herbs and wash them gently with cold water.
2. Pat dry the herbs with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
3. Place the herbs in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Freeze the herbs for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Remove the frozen herbs from the freezer and transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag.
6. Store the freeze-dried herbs in the refrigerator or freezer for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time:
– Freezing time: 2 hours to overnight
– Total preparation time: 15 minutes
Freeze-Dried Sweet Potato Cubes
Transform fresh sweet potatoes into crispy, bite-sized snacks with this easy recipe. Perfect for on-the-go energy or as a crunchy addition to salads.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup coconut oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to its lowest temperature setting (usually around 150°F).
2. Peel and cube the sweet potatoes into desired sizes.
3. In a bowl, mix together the coconut oil and salt.
4. Add the sweet potato cubes to the bowl and toss until they’re evenly coated with the oil mixture.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the sweet potato cubes out in a single layer.
6. Place the baking sheet in the oven and dehydrate for 3-4 hours, or until the sweet potatoes reach your desired level of dryness.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Freeze-Dried Chicken and Rice Meals
A convenient and shelf-stable meal perfect for backpackers, campers, or emergency supplies. This recipe yields individual servings that can be easily rehydrated in the field.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast or thighs
– 1/2 cup uncooked white rice
– 1/4 cup freeze-dried vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together cooked chicken, rice, and freeze-dried vegetables.
2. Add olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper; stir until well combined.
3. Portion the mixture into individual servings (about 1/4 cup each).
4. Place each serving in an airtight container or zip-top bag for storage.
Cooking Time:
– Rehydration time: 30 minutes to 1 hour with boiling water
– Ready-to-eat after rehydration and thorough mixing
Freeze-Dried Pineapple Rings
Freeze-drying pineapple rings is a simple process that preserves the natural sweetness and tanginess of fresh pineapple. With this recipe, you can enjoy your favorite fruit snack year-round.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat your freeze dryer according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a bowl, mix together pineapple chunks and honey (if using). Let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the pineapple to absorb the sweetness.
3. Add lemon juice and gently toss to coat.
4. Load the pineapple mixture onto the freeze dryer trays in a single layer, making sure not to overlap any pieces.
5. Freeze dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually 12-24 hours).
6. Once complete, remove the pineapple rings from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for 1 hour to allow moisture to evaporate.
7. Store your freeze-dried pineapple rings in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Cooking Time: None needed! Enjoy your snack as is or rehydrate with water, if desired.
Freeze-Dried Tomato Powder for Soups
Elevate your soups with the intense flavor of freeze-dried tomato powder. This easy-to-make recipe transforms fresh tomatoes into a concentrated, shelf-stable powder that’s perfect for adding depth and richness to any soup.
Ingredients:
– 3 lbs fresh tomatoes (or 1 can crushed tomatoes)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven or dehydrator to its lowest temperature setting (150°F – 200°F).
2. If using fresh tomatoes, wash and chop them into small pieces. If using canned tomatoes, drain the liquid.
3. Line a baking sheet or dehydrator tray with parchment paper.
4. Spread the tomato mixture evenly onto the prepared surface.
5. Place the baking sheet or dehydrator tray in the oven or dehydrator.
6. Dehydrate for 8-10 hours or until the tomatoes reach a dry, powdery consistency.
7. Allow the powder to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (dehydrating time)
Use this freeze-dried tomato powder to add a burst of flavor to your favorite soups, stews, or sauces.
Freeze-Dried Mango Chunks
Preserve the sweetness of fresh mangoes by freeze-drying them into crunchy, flavorful chunks perfect for snacking or adding to recipes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups ripe mango chunks
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar (optional)
– Water for freezing and drying
Instructions:
1. Preheat your freezer to its coldest setting.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
3. Place the mango chunks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. If using, sprinkle the granulated sugar evenly over the mango chunks.
5. Freeze the mango for at least 2 hours or until frozen solid.
6. Transfer the frozen mango to a single-layer tray or container.
7. Place the tray in the freezer and dehydrate on the lowest setting (typically 135°F – 140°F) for 12-15 hours, or until the desired level of dryness is reached.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe involves freeze-drying rather than cooking.
Freeze-Dried Mushroom Risotto Mix
Experience the rich flavor of Arborio rice and the earthy taste of freeze-dried mushrooms with this convenient recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or an easy meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Freeze-Dried Mushroom Risotto Mix
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the contents of the Freeze-Dried Mushroom Risotto Mix and stir to combine with the oil.
3. Gradually add the water, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender.
5. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Freeze-Dried Blueberry Pancake Mix
With our Freeze-Dried Blueberry Pancake Mix, you can quickly and easily prepare a delicious breakfast or snack that’s bursting with the sweet flavor of blueberries. Simply combine the mix with water, stir, and cook on a griddle or skillet for a pancake treat like no other.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Freeze-Dried Blueberry Pancake Mix
– 2/3 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the pancake mix and water until smooth.
2. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes to allow the blueberries to rehydrate.
3. Heat a non-stick griddle or skillet over medium heat.
4. Pour approximately 1/4 cup of batter onto the griddle.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per batch
Freeze-Dried Vegetable Stir-Fry Pack
Get a flavorful and nutritious meal with our easy-to-prepare Freeze-Dried Vegetable Stir-Fry Pack. Rehydrate the veggies and stir-fry them with your favorite seasonings for a quick and delicious dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 packet of Freeze-Dried Vegetable Stir-Fry Mix
– 2 cups water or rehydration liquid
– Cooking oil (optional)
– Your favorite stir-fry seasonings (e.g., soy sauce, garlic powder, ginger)
Instructions:
1. Rehydrate the freeze-dried vegetables by adding 2 cups of water or rehydration liquid to the packet contents. Let it sit for about 10 minutes.
2. Heat a non-stick pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add cooking oil if desired.
3. Pour in the rehydrated vegetable mixture and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
4. Add your favorite seasonings to taste.
5. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or as a standalone dish.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes from start to finish.
Enjoy your quick and satisfying rehydrated vegetable stir-fry!
Freeze-Dried Peanut Butter Bites
A sweet and satisfying snack that’s perfect for on-the-go. These bite-sized treats are made with peanut butter, oats, and honey, then freeze-dried to a crispy perfection.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, peanut butter, and honey. Mix until well combined.
2. Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should end up with around 20-25 bites.
3. Place the bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet lined with wax paper, leaving some space between each bite.
4. Freeze the bites for at least 30 minutes or until firm.
5. Remove from freezer and place in a single layer on a freeze dryer tray (or a dehydrator set to 135°F).
6. Freeze-dry for 8-10 hours or until crispy.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Freeze-Dried Coconut Chips
Transform fresh coconuts into crispy, flavorful chips that are perfect for snacking or adding to your favorite recipes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Water (as needed)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the freeze dryer according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a bowl, mix together the shredded coconut, sugar, and salt until well combined.
3. Spread the coconut mixture onto the freeze dryer trays in an even layer.
4. Freeze dry the coconut mixture for 12-14 hours or until crispy and dry.
5. Remove the chips from the freeze dryer and break them into smaller pieces.
6. Store the freeze-dried coconut chips in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 12-14 hours (depending on freeze dryer model)
Freeze-Dried Oatmeal with Fruit
This recipe is perfect for busy mornings when you need a nutritious breakfast that’s easy to prepare and pack. With this freeze-dried oatmeal, you can enjoy a warm and comforting bowl of goodness wherever you go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup water or milk
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
– 1/4 cup dried fruit (such as cranberries, blueberries, or raisins)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a simmer.
2. Add the oats and reduce heat to low. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes or until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and reached your desired consistency.
3. Stir in the honey or maple syrup (if using).
4. Fold in the dried fruit and salt.
5. Transfer the oatmeal mixture to an airtight container or freezer bag and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Freeze-Dried Egg Scramble Mix
A convenient and nutritious breakfast or snack option, this freeze-dried egg scramble mix is a game-changer for outdoor enthusiasts and busy individuals alike. With just the right balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fiber, this recipe is perfect for rehydrating on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup freeze-dried scrambled eggs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a pot or camping stove, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Rehydrate the freeze-dried scrambled eggs with 2 tablespoons of hot water (or more as needed).
5. Stir the rehydrated egg mixture into the pot with the onion and garlic.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Summary
Discover a world of creative possibilities with these 19 freeze dryer recipes for long-term storage. From sweet treats like Freeze-Dried Strawberry Yogurt Bites and Freeze-Dried Banana Ice Cream Slices to savory options like Freeze-Dried Vegetable Soup Mix and Freeze-Dried Chicken and Rice Meals, there’s something for everyone. Stock up on Crunchy Freeze-Dried Apple Chips or indulge in decadent Freeze-Dried Peanut Butter Bites. Even preserve your favorite herbs with Freeze-Dried Herbs for Seasoning. Whether you’re a survivalist, foodie, or simply looking to meal prep, these recipes offer endless possibilities for convenient and delicious storage.
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