Last Updated on December 18, 2022 by CHANDRAMANI
Bok Choy, also known as Pak Choi, is a very healthy vegetable that contains significant amounts of calcium, iron, potassium, vitamin B6, vitamin C, and folacin. Here is a detailed guide on how to freeze Bok Choy.
The storage conditions determine how long the bok choy will last. Bok choy may survive for more than six months if frozen in airtight bags with no air inside. However, if you refrigerate it, you can consume it for four to seven days. For better airflow in the latter scenario, you can poke holes in the zipper bags.
To freeze Bok Choy wash it, plunge it into boiling water and then quickly chill it in cold water to stop cooking. This process is called Blanching which prevents flavor, color, and texture loss. Drain excess water and store it in airtight containers inside a freezer.
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Table of Contents
How to Freeze Bok Choy?
There are two popular ways to freeze Bok Choy. Freezing without Blanching and freezing after blanching.
If you freeze it without blanching then it doesn’t turn mushy but it can cause a loss of flavor, color, and texture for a long time. Blanching slows or stops the enzyme action which can cause a loss of flavor, color, and texture. Therefore freezing after blanching is recommended.
You have to be careful about under-blanching and overbalancing. Underblanching can increase the activity of enzymes and Over blanching causes loss of flavor, color, vitamins, and minerals.
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1. Freezing without Blanching
Using paper towels, you must first thoroughly clean your vegetables before gently washing them. Cut the stems from the vegetable base, then use wet paper towels to clean them down completely.
Cut the bok choy into pieces after that. Keep these pieces in freezer zipper bags and gently press the bag’s seal to expel air. To freeze, keep the bags in the freezer.
2. Freezing after blanching (4 Steps)
In order to freeze bok choy by this process follow the steps.
1. Wash Bok Choy
To remove all the dirt, separate the stalks. To adequately wash the stalks, you can wash them individually. You must either cut baby bok choy in half or into quarters before washing it.
To get rid of all the dirt, properly wash the bok choy.
2. Blanching
In a pot or saucepan, heat water just before it begins to boil. Bok choy should be placed in boiling water for two minutes. Ensure that it covers each and every stalk.
3. Place in Ice Water
Bok choy should be immediately placed in ice water in another pot after blanching to stop the cooking process. After one minute, remove it from the cold water. With a paper towel, pat dry the leaves.
4. Store in bags
Bok choy should be dried before being placed in freezer zipper bags and kept there. As little air as possible should be present inside the bags. Write the date you started freezing them on the labels.
How to Refrigerate Bok Choy?
If you want to refrigerate bok choy you shouldn’t wash them. Washing them can start the rotting process. In order to refrigerate you can store it in zipper bags. Make some holes in it for proper air circulation. Use it within 4 to 6 days.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it OK to freeze bok choy?
Yes, you can freeze bok choy. To freeze it first wash it, then blanch it for two minutes. Immerse it in cold water immediately after blanching. Then Dry and store it in freezer zipper bags after taking out extra air.
How do you store bok choy in the freezer?
Blanch it and then store it in the freezer zipper bags. Take out the excess air before storing it in the freezer.
How long does bok choy last in the freezer?
Bok Choy can last for around 12 months if it is stored properly in the freezer. For its longer life store in freezer zipper bags after taking out excess air in the freezer below 0 degrees Fahrenheit or lower.
What is the best way to store bok choy?
Store Bok Choy in zipper bags. Make some holes for proper air circulation. Then put it in the crisper section of your refrigerator for up to a week. Wash before using.
You can also freeze Bok Choy in a freezer and keep it for about 12 months.
How do you store bok choy without plastic?
Wrap your Bok Choy in a towel or newspaper and store in the crisper section of the refrigerator for up to one week. Wash it before use.
Is bok choy healthy?
Bok Choy or Pak Choi is a highly nutritious vegetable with a high amount of vitamin c, Vitamin K, vitamin B6, calcium, iron, potassium, and folacin. It can also reduce the chances of cancer.
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Hi, I am Chandramani Bhushan. I have worked in the home appliances industry for more than 5+ years where my primary work was to check the performance and quality. I am also the owner of many home appliances in my home and love to share my experience through this blog.
I started this blog in 2020 to help users find solutions related to freezers, refrigerators, and other home appliances. Also, through this blog, I help people find the right option by giving a detailed guide and help them decide on a product.