Vegetable packages for winter

Recipe for Colorful Vegetable Packs for Winter

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Freezing time: 24 hours
Total time: 24 hours 30 minutes
Number of servings: 8 servings (enough for several meals)

Winter is the season when we want to enjoy the fresh taste of vegetables, and preparing these colorful vegetable packs for freezing is an excellent way to have healthy ingredients available all year round. This recipe will not only enrich your meals but is also an efficient and healthy way to preserve fresh vegetables without canning, so they retain their flavor and nutrients.

Ingredients:

- 2 kg bell peppers
- 2 kg sweet peppers
- 2 kg pimientos
- 2 kg tomatoes
- Optional: 1 kg cauliflower, 1 kg kohlrabi, 1 kg celery

Ingredient details:

- Bell peppers: They bring natural sweetness and intense flavor to your dishes. They are high in vitamin C and antioxidants.
- Sweet peppers: Available in a variety of colors, they are rich in vitamins A and C, providing not only taste but also health benefits.
- Pimientos: With a crunchy texture, they are ideal for various dishes and are an excellent source of vitamin C and fiber.
- Tomatoes: They offer a sweet-sour taste and are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. After freezing, the skin will peel off easily, making them easier to use.
- Cauliflower, kohlrabi, and celery: Optional but add extra flavor and nutrients. Cauliflower is rich in vitamin K, and celery contains a lot of fiber.

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Wash the vegetables: Start by washing all the vegetables thoroughly under cold running water. Make sure to remove any impurities or pesticides.

2. Clean and cut: Remove the seeds from the bell peppers and sweet peppers. You can cut the peppers into strips or cubes, depending on your preference. You can cut the tomatoes in half or leave them whole if they are small.

3. Prepare optional vegetables: If you choose to add cauliflower, cut it into small florets. Kohlrabi and celery can be cut into cubes.

4. Sterilization: Make sure the vegetables are well dried after washing. You can use a clean kitchen towel to wipe them dry.

5. Portioning: Place the cut vegetables into plastic freezer bags. It is important to divide them into portions that will be useful when cooking.

6. Label the bags: Don't forget to label each bag with the date and contents. This way, you will always know what you have in the freezer.

7. Freezing: Lay the bags in a single layer in the freezer for even freezing. It is recommended not to overcrowd them to avoid ice crystal formation.

Useful tips:

- Use fresh vegetables: The fresher the vegetables, the better they will retain their flavor and nutrients after freezing.
- Quick freezing: If you have a quick-freeze freezer, use it to minimize ice crystal formation and keep the textures of the vegetables intact.
- Moisture removal: Make sure the vegetables are well dried before freezing to avoid ice crystal formation.
- Cook with frozen vegetables: These vegetables are excellent for making soups, stews, or stir-fries. For example, add them to a pot of hot soup without thawing to preserve flavor and texture.

Nutritional benefits:

These vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals, contributing to a balanced diet. For example, peppers and tomatoes are excellent sources of vitamin C, which helps strengthen the immune system. Additionally, regular consumption of vegetables helps maintain a healthy weight and reduces the risk of chronic diseases.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other vegetables? Of course! You can add carrots, zucchini, or even peas, depending on your preferences.
2. How long can I keep frozen vegetables? Generally, frozen vegetables can be kept for 6-12 months, but it is best to consume them earlier for the best quality.
3. How can I use frozen vegetables in cooking? You can use frozen vegetables directly from the freezer without thawing when making soups, stews, or sauces.

Serving suggestions:

These vegetable packs are perfect for use in vegetable soup recipes, tripe soup, or even meat stews. You can serve them with a slice of fresh bread or a portion of rice for a complete and healthy meal.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to get to work! By preparing these colorful vegetable packs, not only will you enjoy a delicious taste every winter, but you will also ensure your intake of essential nutrients. Enjoy cooking and the delicious meals you will prepare!