Storage Question

[GlutenGalAZ]

I use Freezer Zip locks for things I am freezing and regular zip lock for what I am putting the in the refridgerator.

I recently got Ziploc brand containers that they show can go in the freezer.

I am wanting to make more things to put in the freezer (meals, bread etc) but don't want to spend the time and money making things to freeze if I am not going to store them correctly.

What are some good storage tips? Such as what you use to store foods in the freezer or refridgerator?

I haven't made "meals" yet to freeze ahead of time but I want to....how long do things in the freezer usually last such as if I were to make mini meat loafts or lasagna?

Strange question but can I freeze home made gluten free cookies, cupcakes or muffins (I would like to make a larger batch)? If so do they defrost okay?

Sorry for all the questions.

Thank you very much!!

[missy'smom]

I don't recommend the Glad plastic containers with the blue lids. They shatter when they fall out of the freezer onto the floor.

I can't say what the best way is but I use Ziplocks a lot and just naturally or through conscious effort use things up quickly-within a month or so. I freeze entrees in the pyrex containers with lids. They can go into the oven or microwave. I haven't had any problem or noticable difference in freezing baked goods or pancakes. I find that meatloaf and balls hold up well for quite a while.

For some items, like mini meatloaves, chicken strips or cutlets, breaded zucchini rounds, I lay them out on a baking sheet that's covered with foil or parchment and freeze slightly until firm before transferring to bags or containers that way they don't get damaged in packing. I did that today with frozen store bought pizza crusts that I toppped with sauce, cheese and toppings and then froze unbaked and wrapped up when the sauce had frozen.

[curlyfries]

I freeze entrees in the pyrex containers with lids. They can go into the oven or microwave.

If you want to freeze a lot of entrees but don't want to to buy a bunch of pyrex, line the container with foil or parchment, put in entree, then stick in the freezer. Once it's frozen, pop it out and stick into a ziploc. Better yet, vacuum seal, if you have one. I love mine!

Lisa

[GlutenGalAZ]

Thank you for the replies and good ideas.

I am new with the whole freezing thing. I have never made a meal ahead of time to freeze but with the busy season coming at work (middle of summer through November) I have definately been thinking about it.

Thank you all again

[HAK1031]

I freeze a LOT! My dad made me promise to have all of my stuff out of the freezer before I go to college I have a year and a half!

For baked goods, I freeze individual portions, ie 2 slices of bread, 3 pancakes, etc. and wrap the portions in foil. I then either put them in a freezer bag or a tupperware container. For entrees, I cool them in the fridge first in a tupperware then they go into the freezer. I freeze stews/soups a lot, and things like rice dishes and one-pot meals.

[Darn210]

Strange question but can I freeze home made gluten free cookies, cupcakes or muffins (I would like to make a larger batch)? If so do they defrost okay?

I've had great luck freezing cupcakes and muffins. I recommend freezing cupcakes without the icing though. I've never frozen icing but my grandmother did and it did not hold up well.

The cookies should freeze just fine but depending on the type of cookie, you may want to freeze the dough instead. You can freeze just a lump of dough that you would then thaw and portion out and bake . . . or freeze in "spoonful portions" on wax paper on a cookie sheet and then throw into a ziploc once frozen. Then just take out a couple at a time for "fresh" cookies. I haven't had much luck with this method though . . . the frozen cookie dough was constantly calling to me . . . none survived to be baked!!! Next time I'll try the lump of dough method, it will be harder to gnaw off a bite!!

[GlutenGalAZ]

Thank you for the new ideas. I get really nervous about making stuff ahead of time and freezing it not knowing if I am doing it right or not. Everyones input really helped

I am getting into cooking and baking more so I am excited to be learning all of the methods of storing and freezing things.

Thanks again!