Freeze Your Fresh Herbs In An Ice Cube Tray For Ultimate Freshness

How to make frozen herb cubes

Ice cube trays are ideal for creating herb cubes that you can enjoy all year round, and there are countless options available. Silicone-bottomed trays allow for easy removal of individual cubes, while larger trays offer bigger portions. You can also find fun shapes, like heart-shaped and honeycomb trays, which add a playful touch.

The simplest method for freezing herb ice cubes is to use water, which works best for lighter herbs such as basil and cilantro. Start by filling each compartment of the tray halfway with chopped herbs. Then, pour in enough water to cover the herbs as much as possible and freeze overnight. The following day, if needed, you can add another layer of water and freeze again. Store the cubes in an airtight container. These water-based cubes can be used in cooking or as a fun garnish for drinks.

Another effective way to preserve fresh herbs is by freezing them in oil, creating aromatic cubes perfect for soups and sauces. Hardy herbs with robust flavors, like rosemary and oregano, freeze well in oil, enhancing the flavor of the cubes. The process is similar to freezing in water: simply pack your chopped herbs into an ice cube tray, filling each section halfway. Then, cover the herbs with a neutral oil, such as light olive oil or canola oil. This herbal oil cube will serve as a flavorful base for your cooking, so choose an oil that you commonly use.

Why freezing herbs in ice cubes works

Fresh produce deteriorates due to chemical changes that occur as it ages. Enzymes are the primary agents responsible for decay, activating as soon as the herb is cut from the plant. Their main function is to break down proteins into amino acids, leading to noticeable changes in smell and color, as well as a reduction in nutrients. From the various types of oregano to the diverse selection of basil and thyme, freezing herbs is one of the most effective methods to halt this process.

This is because enzymes slow down when cooled, effectively stopping decomposition. However, freezing does not preserve the plant's appearance beautifully. Many herbs may lose their structure and appear wilted after freezing, even if they are frozen at their peak freshness, and they will continue to wilt as they thaw. While there are other methods to preserve herbs, freezing is the best way to retain the essential oils that enhance their flavor. Therefore, although frozen herbs may lack the visual charm of fresh ones, they provide a flavor intensity that comes very close to it.