master-cooks | Here's One Ingredient That Ina Garten Will Always Have In Her Freezer

Ina Garten, the beloved culinary expert and television host, has a well-curated list of kitchen essentials that she swears by, but there's one ingredient that she always ensures is stocked in her freezer: homemade chicken stock. This versatile staple is a game-changer in the kitchen, providing a rich, flavorful base for an array of dishes. Garten believes that homemade chicken stock is far superior to store-bought varieties, as it offers depth and warmth that can elevate even the simplest of recipes. Preparing it in large batches and freezing it in portioned containers allows for easy access whenever her culinary creativity strikes. Whether it’s for making soups, stews, or risottos, having homemade chicken stock readily available ensures that her dishes are infused with a comforting, savory taste. Garten's approach emphasizes the importance of quality ingredients and the transformative power they have on cooking. By prioritizing homemade chicken stock, she sets a foundation for flavorful home-cooked meals that delight the palate. This practice not only embodies her philosophy of cooking with love and care but also showcases the simplicity and effectiveness of keeping a well-stocked, thoughtfully organized kitchen.

Use your chicken stock like a pro

Did you know that Ina Garten has a clever freezer trick for stock that can help you save both time and money? After cooking, allow the stock to cool before transferring it to a container marked with the date. Make sure to leave some space at the top to prevent the container from cracking as the liquid freezes and expands. You might be familiar with that advice already, but here’s where her tip shines: Garten waits until the containers are completely frozen before stacking them, which helps them freeze faster. When she’s ready to use the stock, she simply lets it thaw in the refrigerator overnight, making it convenient for any recipe.

You can find freezer-safe deli containers in various sizes on Amazon, allowing you to defrost only what you need. They come in sizes of 1 cup, 1 pint, and 1 quart, and all use the same lids. Alternatively, you can freeze the stock in ice cube trays for smaller portions, perfect for whipping up pan sauces and gravies quickly. The Doqaus ice cube tray with lids is particularly useful for this purpose.

Once your chicken stock is frozen, it opens up a world of culinary possibilities, providing an easy and quick way to enhance the flavor of a variety of savory dishes, including ramen, chicken noodle soup, rice dishes, curries, and sauces. In fact, having chicken stock readily available is one of Ina Garten's many tips for becoming a better home cook.

Here's One Ingredient That Ina Garten Will Always Have In Her Freezer

Use your chicken stock like a pro

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