Dill for winter

Frozen Dill Cubes - A Green Delicacy for Winter

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Freezing time: 4-6 hours
Servings: N/A (use as needed)

During the cold season, we want to preserve the fresh flavors of summer, and frozen dill cubes are the perfect solution. Dill, with its distinctive and vibrant aroma, is a versatile ingredient that adds wonderful flavor to meat, fish, soups, or salads. In this simple recipe, I will show you how to prepare dill cubes to use throughout the winter.

Required Ingredients

- Fresh dill (approximately 200-300 g, depending on how much you want to make)
- Cold water (enough to fill the ice cube trays)

Tips for Choosing Ingredients:
- Choose fresh dill with vibrant green leaves and no spots or yellowing. Dried dill will not provide the same intense flavor.
- If you want to experiment, you can combine dill with other fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, for a unique flavor mix.

Step by Step

Step 1: Cleaning and Preparing the Dill
Start by cleaning the dill. Break off the thicker stems and keep only the delicate leaves. Rinse them well under cold running water to remove any impurities or pesticides. Once washed, place the dill in a fine sieve to drain completely.

Step 2: Chopping the Dill
After draining, chop the dill as finely as possible. A fine chop will help release the flavors and make the ice cubes easier to use in dishes.

Step 3: Filling the Ice Cube Trays
Take the ice cube trays and fill them up to ¾ with the chopped dill. It’s important not to fill them completely, as the water will expand when freezing.

Step 4: Adding Water
Pour cold water over the dill in the trays, filling them to the brim. Use filtered or tap water, but ensure it is cold to avoid rapid melting of the cubes.

Step 5: Freezing
Place the ice cube trays in the freezer and let them freeze completely, which will take between 4 and 6 hours. It’s advisable to leave them overnight to ensure they are well solidified.

Step 6: Storing the Dill Cubes
Once the cubes are fully frozen, carefully remove them from the trays and place them in a sealed plastic bag, labeling the bag with the date and contents. This way, you can use the dill cubes whenever you need a burst of fresh flavor.

Using Dill Cubes

Dill cubes are extremely versatile. You can add them to:
- Soups and broths for a fresh taste.
- Sauces or dressings, bringing a note of freshness.
- Fish or meat dishes to enhance the flavor.
- Salads once thawed.

Nutritional Benefits

Dill is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as calcium, iron, and manganese. It also contains antioxidants that help protect the body from free radicals. Adding it to your diet can contribute to better health.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I freeze other herbs?
Yes, many herbs can be frozen similarly, including parsley, basil, cilantro, and thyme.

- How can I use dill cubes?
When you need dill, take a few cubes from the freezer and add them directly to your dish. There’s no need to thaw them first.

- How long can I keep dill cubes in the freezer?
Dill cubes can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months, but for the best flavor, it’s recommended to use them within 2-3 months.

Personal Notes

I discovered this recipe on a beautiful summer day when my garden was full of fresh herbs. I realized how easy it is to preserve the flavors of summer for winter, and dill cubes have become an essential ingredient in my kitchen. I love adding them to warm soups on cold days, bringing a touch of warmth and summer aroma to the plate.

Possible Variations

If you want to experiment, try adding a few thin slices of lemon or lime to the ice cube trays for a citrusy note. You can also combine dill with other aromatic herbs, such as basil or oregano, for an explosion of flavors.

Frozen dill cubes are a simple and effective way to keep the flavors of summer in your winter dishes. With a little effort, you can enjoy the fresh taste of dill even on the coldest winter days. Bon appétit!