With the holidays over and the kids back to school, it is nice to have some recipes on hand that you just need to thaw and bake in the oven for dinner. Although, if not frozen properly, those easy recipes can get freezer burn and lose flavour. Here is how to store your hard work properly for easy preparation upon thawing.
Casseroles:
1. Line baking dishes with heavy-duty foil before filling. Leave foil over the sides to use as handles.
2. Once frozen, lift frozen casserole out using the foil as handles.
3. Rewrap casserole tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
4. Overwrap in heavy-duty foil or seal in freezer bag, pressing out air.
5. Label and date package for easy identification. Include reheating information.
6. To use, unwrap and return frozen casserole to same baking dish, or one of similar size.
7. Cover and thaw in refrigerator for up to 48 hours, depending on density of food.
8. Prepare as per the directions on the package.
Stews, chili and curries:
1. Let cool for 30 minutes.
2. Scoop into shallow airtight freezer container.
3. Seal, label and date container. Include reheating information.
4. Thaw in refrigerator or microwave.
5. Prepare as per directions on the package.
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