Chives are the smallest variety belonging to the onion family. This tasty herb has an intense taste, similar to that of onions or garlic, but with a fresh note because it is usually picked directly from the fresh plant and sprinkled on food. If you want to preserve chives, the best way is to freeze it rather than dry it. For best results, use some very fresh chives and read on to follow the right method.
Steps
Step 1. Check the fresh chives
Cut near the base of the plant to encourage growth.
Step 2. Wash carefully
Rinse with cold water.
Step 3. Cut off the root or other bad parts of the plant
Step 4. Place it on a cloth to dry
You can also use kitchen paper if you want. Make sure it is completely dry before freezing it to not spoil the flavor.
Leave the chives on the cloth and wait for it to dry naturally. Do not tap it to avoid breaking the plant and compromising the flavor
Step 5. Cut into small pieces with a sharp knife
To facilitate the preparation of future recipes, it is advisable to cut it to the right size that you will need for the preparation of the dish.
Step 6. Place the chopped chives in sturdy freezer bags
To handle them more easily, try to support them by creating a horizontal layer. Before closing it again, compress the bag to remove all the air.
Step 7. Place the bag in the freezer making sure to place it on top of something horizontal to properly freeze the contents
Leave in the freezer overnight.
Step 8. Remove the bag from the freezer and pack the chives back into portions
For example, you can measure the portions you will need for your recipes with a plate and transfer the herb into smaller freezer bags, in this way, you will always have the right portions ready for your dishes.
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Since the chives defrost very quickly, try to put them back in the bags within a few minutes of taking them out of the freezer.
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Note that this last step is not necessary if you want to keep all the chives in the same bag. However, know that if you continue to open and close the bag, the herb will come into contact with oxygen, so the flavor may not be as fresh.
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Step 9. Remove the chives from the freezer and place it directly on the food
The herb will defrost very quickly, so there is no need to wait.
