Curious about the possibility of freezing dandelions for later use? Dandelions are not only common in lawns and gardens but also have a variety of culinary uses. Freezing dandelions can be a convenient way to preserve their freshness and nutritional benefits for future dishes.
How do I lose weight without doing exercise?
Do you suffer with stubborn belly fat, that’s nearly impossible to shift no matter how much exercise you do?
Or perhaps you find it hard to follow a healthy diet because you simply feel too hungry and suffer with excessive cravings for sugar and carbs.
If this is the case, then you’re not alone.
In fact statistics show us that more than 1 in 3 adults in the US are considered to be overweight.
The main problem is that visceral fat that surrounds your belly puts a strain on your body, and can raise the risk of having high blood pressure or a heart attack.
When it comes to weight management, the most crucial factor in weight loss is calorie balance.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, if you are gaining weight, you are consuming more calories than your body is using. Calories are crucial for managing your weight.
Whereas becoming skinny doesn’t also look very attractive, eating less and adopting a healthier lifestyle are the best strategies to reduce your calorie intake, while exercising is the best strategy to raise your calorie burning. That said, unless you’re aiming for an Olympic medal, taking a 20-minute walk regularly, or tending your flower garden is sufficient exercise unless you want to become a couch-potato.
Having more belly fat also means that you have some degree of insulin resistance, which can develop into type 2 diabetes if you don’t change your eating habits long term.
The good news is that there are certain herbs and natural remedies that can help you to burn fat around the belly area, by lowering certain hormones.
That being said, here are top 10 herbs & remedies that burn belly fat and support weight loss.
1. Turmeric & Black Pepper
One of the most powerful remedies to burn belly fat is turmeric with black pepper.
Turmeric is golden coloured spice and has been used for over 5000 years in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine.
This spice contains a natural ingredient called curcumin, which has been scientifically shown to support weight loss and fat burning by improving the flow of bile from your liver and gallbladder.
This digestive liquid helps break down your body fat whilst you are dieting or exercising, turning it into energy so you feel less hungry.
You can get turmeric in capsules with added black pepper.
Taking 2 of these per day helps to lower inflammation in your body, and speed up fat metabolism.
It’s important that you choose a brand which contains black pepper, as this increases the absorption of curcumin by 2000%
2. Raw Coconut Oil
The second remedy on our list is raw coconut oil. If you have ever tried to lose weight, but haven’t changed your cooking oils you may find it extremely difficult.
Regular vegetable oils like soy, canola, cottonseed and margarine cause inflammation in your liver and pancreas, making it very hard to lose weight.
However, switching to raw virgin coconut oil will supply medium chain fats that are easily broken down in the body and provide fuel directly to your cells.
I recommend cooking with raw coconut oil as it has a very high smoke point.
MCT’s in coconut oil reduce cravings naturally because they directly feed your cells with energy (ketones), making you feel more satisfied and less likely to cheat on your diet.
3. Green Tea
Next up is green tea. Green tea is one of the healthiest fat burning drinks on the planet, especially when it comes to burning stubborn belly fat.
If you often feel lethargic, tired and lacking energy when your following a diet or exercise plan, starting drinking 2-3 cups of matcha green tea per day.
The catechins called EGCG in green tea help your cells to burn body fat for fuel at 16% increased rate.
The subtle amounts of caffeine in green tea also stimulate your nervous system which increases the amount of calories you burn throughout the day.
4. Dandelion
Another excellent herb for weight loss is dandelion.
Dandelions are often considered to be a weed, but it turns out that it’s actually an extremely powerful herb with medicinal properties.
It contains a bitter compound called taraxacin, which stimulates the glands in your digestive system to release digestive juices.
Including bile from the gallbladder, saliva from the mouth, digestive enzymes from the pancreas and intestinal juices.
These all help you to digest foods that you eat, absorb nutrients and speed up the fat burning process.
On a side note, this herb is also loaded with potassium that helps to release trapped fluid retention in the body, and lowers inflammation.
5. Cinnamon.
Ceylon cinnamon is a delicious spice which you can purchase in powdered form or dried cinnamon sticks.
It’s often used for baking and cooking and has a beautiful aroma.
Eating cinnamon helps to lower your blood sugars, and allow fuel to enter your cells better by reducing the need for insulin in the body.
Insulin is the fat storage hormone, so whenever you want to lose weight, you need to focus on lowering this hormone.
Cinnamon’s powerful anti-oxidant properties help to lower insulin and inflammation so that your body can tap into its fat stores and burn them as a source of fuel.
6. Chromium
Now we will take a look at one of the most important and overlooked nutrients for burning fat.
Chromium. Chromium is a natural trace mineral and nutrient that rapidly helps to balance blood sugars when you’re trying to lose weight.
It’s excellent for anyone with belly fat, insulin resistance, diabetes or prediabetes.
You can take 1000mcg of chromium picolinate every single day to help reduce cravings because it helps your cells to accept fuel making you less hungry.
It also boosts glutathione, the master antioxidant made by your liver, which is important when flushing out toxins that may have been stored in your fat cells.
7. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is very powerful for cleansing and burning fat.
Taking 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, mixed in a glass of water before each meal helps to improve digestion and burn off more calories.
Most people over the age of 30 suffer with some type of indigestion, such as GERD bloating or constipation which can lead to weight gain especially around the stomach.
When you consume apple cider vinegar, It brings the Ph. level of your stomach acids back down to their normal range between 1-3.
This normal acidity stimulates the release of bile and pancreatic enzymes which help you to absorb more nutrients from your food, burn more fat as a fuel, and flush out waste through the colon.
8. Black Seed Oil
Black seed oil is extracted from nigella sativa seeds and has been used in Asia for thousands of years for treating different health problems.
If you wish you can start taking a teaspoon of this in the morning, mixed in a glass of water.
You can even add this to your apple cider vinegar drink if you wish.
The active ingredient called thymoquinone has been shown to help activate beta cells in the pancreas to make insulin more sensitive.
This helps reduce the need to store extra body fat, and therefore helps in the elimination of fat around the stomach.
Black seed oil is labelled as “the cure of all but death” in some religions, which is fitting as it also has anti-cancer properties.
9. Milk Thistle
Milk thistle is a powerful liver cleansing herb.
If you have belly fat, this indicates that you also have a fatty liver.
What happens is, whenever you eat carbohydrates and junk foods your body turns them into blood sugars.
When there is too much sugar in the blood, the liver takes this excess sugar and converts it into fat.
Over time this fat builds up inside the liver, which then starts spilling over into the gut forming visceral and subcutaneous belly fat.
You can take freeze dried milk thistle 3 times per day to help detoxify your liver and help heal the liver cells from inflammation.
The silymarin compound in milk thistle helps you to lose belly fat by treating the underlying cause which is a fatty liver.
10. Rhodiola
The power of rhodiola cannot be underestimated.
If you feel stressed, anxious or tense then you may find it impossible to lose weight.
Mental stress and pressures stimulate the release of cortisol from your adrenal glands. This is a hormone which can cause you to gain weight, and feel more hungry.
Cortisol converts some of your muscle into sugar and fat, and commonly causes weight gain around the stomach, and cellulite around the legs.
To help manage stress, consider taking rhodiola daily.
This is an adaptogen herb which helps the body adapt to stress by balancing hormones.
After taking this for a few weeks you may notice that you’re getting better sleep, and you find it easier to manage stress with less cravings for sugar and junk foods.
Burning Fat at Maximum Potential
Now that you’re aware of some natural remedies that help you to burn fat, I want to share with you a few quick-fire tips on how to supercharge your body’s fat burning potential.
Firstly, you need to know that insulin is the main fat storage hormone, which you need to bring down if you want to burn off fat.
Cutting back on sugary foods, refined carbohydrates, and all grains will reduce insulin and therefore help your cells to burn fat as fuel.
Switching out refined carbs and eating more healthy fats from avocados, grass fed butter, raw coconut oil and olive oil will help you feel energized and satisfied after a meal.
Fasting between meals is important, because every time you eat or drink anything with calories you raise insulin, slowing down your weight loss.
Taking long and gentle walks in nature for 1 hour per day will calm down stress hormones and bring in more oxygen through your lungs to further improve fat burning.
Instead of focusing on calories in and calories out, focus on lowering insulin and you will soon notice that you know instinctually when to eat and when you are just eating emotionally.
In terms of exercise, high intensity interval training is the best way to burn fat, build muscle and keep the belly fat off long term.
If you still feel that you’re hungry all the time, make sure that you are getting enough omega-3 fats in your diet from shellfish and seafood like salmon, sardines along with pasture raised eggs and hormone-free red meat.
QUIZ:
My Weight Loss Transformation Started With This Strange Little Quiz…
Before you decide to freeze dandelions, it’s important to understand the process and potential outcomes. Freezing dandelions requires proper preparation to maintain their flavor and texture. By following the right steps, you can ensure that frozen dandelions retain their quality and are ready to use whenever you need them.
Benefits of Freezing Dandelions
Freezing dandelions can be a great way to preserve this nutritious and versatile plant for later use. By freezing dandelions, you can enjoy their health benefits all year round. Dandelions are rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium. Freezing them helps to retain these nutrients so that you can continue to benefit from them even when dandelions are out of season.
One of the main reasons to freeze dandelions is to have access to their medicinal properties whenever you need them. Dandelions have long been used in traditional medicine for their diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. By freezing dandelions, you can easily incorporate them into your diet or use them to make healing teas or tinctures.
Additionally, freezing dandelions can help to extend their shelf life. Fresh dandelions have a short lifespan and can wilt quickly. By freezing dandelions, you can keep them fresh for longer and reduce waste. This is especially useful if you have a large harvest of dandelions and want to save some for later use.
Furthermore, freezing dandelions allows you to enjoy their unique flavor and texture in a variety of dishes. Frozen dandelions can be added to salads, soups, stir-fries, and smoothies. They can also be used to make dandelion pesto, dandelion fritters, or dandelion-infused oils. Freezing dandelions gives you the flexibility to experiment with new recipes and discover the many ways that this humble plant can enhance your culinary creations.
Preserving dandelions
Dandelions are a versatile plant that can be preserved in various ways to enjoy their nutritional benefits and unique flavor throughout the year. Freezing dandelions is one popular method of preservation that allows you to stock up on this nutritious plant for later use.
To freeze dandelions, start by harvesting fresh dandelion greens from your garden or a pesticide-free area. Make sure to wash the dandelion greens thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Next, blanch the greens in boiling water for a couple of minutes, then transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
After blanching, you can pack the dandelion greens into airtight containers or freezer bags. Label the containers with the date and store them in the freezer. Frozen dandelions can be used in soups, stews, stir-fries, and other dishes throughout the year.
Here is a table summarizing the steps to freeze dandelions:
| Steps to Freeze Dandelions |
| ————————- |
| 1. Harvest fresh dandelion greens |
| 2. Wash the greens thoroughly |
| 3. Blanch the greens in boiling water |
| 4. Transfer to an ice bath |
| 5. Pack into airtight containers or freezer bags |
| 6. Label and store in the freezer |
Preserving dandelions by freezing them is a convenient way to ensure you have a supply of this nutritious plant on hand whenever you need it. Whether you use them in cooking or enjoy them in salads, frozen dandelions can be a valuable addition to your pantry.
Extending dandelion season
Dandelions are a versatile and abundant wild plant that can be found in many parts of the world. They are not only a common sight in meadows and fields but also make a great addition to your diet. If you enjoy dandelions and want to extend their season, freezing them is a great option. Freezing dandelions allows you to preserve their freshness and nutritional value for a longer period.
To freeze dandelions, start by harvesting fresh, young leaves and flowers from a clean and pesticide-free area. Make sure to wash them thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Next, blanch the dandelions by plunging them into boiling water for a minute or two, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This will help preserve their color, texture, and flavor.
After blanching, drain the dandelions well and pat them dry with a clean towel. You can then portion them into freezer-safe bags or containers, making sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the bags with the date and store them in the freezer.
When you’re ready to use your frozen dandelions, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or cook them directly from frozen. They can be added to soups, stews, stir-fries, or salads for a burst of color and flavor. Freezing dandelions is a convenient way to enjoy them year-round and make the most of their health benefits.
In conclusion, freezing dandelions is a simple and effective way to extend their season and enjoy their nutritional benefits long after they’ve disappeared from the fields. Whether you’re a forager, gardener, or simply a fan of this versatile plant, freezing dandelions is a great way to make the most of their abundance and add a touch of wild freshness to your meals.
Preparing dandelions for freezing
Dandelions are versatile and nutritious plants that can be enjoyed fresh in salads, cooked in various dishes, or even preserved by freezing. Freezing dandelions is a great way to enjoy their unique flavor and health benefits all year round. Here is a simple guide on how to prepare dandelions for freezing:
First, you’ll need to gather fresh dandelions from a clean and pesticide-free area. Make sure to pick young and tender leaves for the best taste and texture. Avoid dandelions that have started to bloom as they may be too bitter.
Next, wash the dandelions thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. You can use a colander or salad spinner to make sure they are clean and dry.
Once the dandelions are clean, blanch them to preserve their color, flavor, and nutrients. Bring a pot of water to a boil and add the dandelions for about 1-2 minutes. Then, quickly transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
After blanching, drain the dandelions well and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. You can then pack them into airtight containers or freezer bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Label the containers with the date and store them in the freezer. Frozen dandelions can be used in soups, stews, stir-fries, or as a side dish. Remember to use them within 6-12 months for the best quality.
By following these simple steps, you can enjoy the taste and health benefits of dandelions throughout the year. Freezing dandelions is a convenient way to preserve their freshness and add a nutritious touch to your meals.
Washing and drying dandelions
Dandelions are versatile and nutritious plants that can be harvested for various culinary purposes. Before freezing dandelions, it is essential to wash them thoroughly to remove any dirt, debris, or insects that may be present. Begin by rinsing the dandelions under cold water to loosen any dirt or residue. Gently rub the leaves and flowers to ensure they are clean.
After washing, it is crucial to dry the dandelions thoroughly before freezing them. Excess moisture can cause the dandelions to become soggy and lose their texture when frozen. To dry the dandelions, pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel. You can also use a salad spinner to remove excess water from the leaves and flowers.
Once the dandelions are washed and dried, you can proceed to freeze them for later use. Freezing dandelions allows you to preserve their freshness and nutritional value for an extended period. Properly washed and dried dandelions can be stored in airtight containers or freezer bags before placing them in the freezer. This way, you can enjoy the taste of dandelions in your favorite recipes year-round.
In conclusion, washing and drying dandelions are essential steps before freezing them for later use. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your frozen dandelions retain their flavor and texture. So go ahead and stock up on dandelions to add a nutritious and delicious twist to your meals!
Blanching Dandelions
Blanching dandelions is a simple process that involves briefly cooking the greens in boiling water and then plunging them into ice-cold water to stop the cooking process. This method helps preserve the vibrant color and nutrients of the dandelion greens, making them more palatable and versatile in various dishes.
To blanch dandelions, start by washing the greens thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Then, bring a pot of water to a boil and add a pinch of salt. Carefully add the dandelion greens to the boiling water and let them cook for about 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on them to ensure they do not overcook.
Once the greens are tender but still bright green, quickly remove them from the boiling water and transfer them to a bowl of ice water. This shocking process helps retain the color and texture of the dandelion greens. After a minute or two in the ice water, drain the greens and pat them dry with a paper towel.
Blanched dandelion greens can be used in salads, stir-fries, soups, or simply sautéed with garlic and olive oil. Their slightly bitter flavor pairs well with savory ingredients and adds a unique twist to any dish. So, next time you have a bunch of dandelion greens, try blanching them to enhance their taste and presentation.
Freezing Dandelions
Dandelions are versatile plants that can be used in various culinary dishes. Freezing dandelions is a great way to preserve them for future use. When freezing dandelions, it is important to follow a few simple steps to ensure that they retain their flavor and nutritional value.
First, start by harvesting fresh dandelions from your garden or a pesticide-free area. Make sure to wash them thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Next, blanch the dandelion greens in boiling water for a few minutes to preserve their color and texture. After blanching, transfer the dandelions to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
Once the dandelions are cooled, pat them dry and place them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Flash freeze the dandelions by placing the baking sheet in the freezer for a few hours. Once the dandelions are frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag for long-term storage.
When you are ready to use the frozen dandelions, simply remove them from the freezer and thaw them in the refrigerator or at room temperature. Frozen dandelions can be used in a variety of dishes, such as soups, salads, and stir-fries. Their vibrant color and slightly bitter flavor can add a unique touch to your meals.
In conclusion, freezing dandelions is a simple and effective way to preserve this versatile plant for future use. By following the steps outlined above, you can enjoy the nutritional benefits and unique flavor of dandelions all year round. So go ahead and freeze some dandelions to add a pop of color and flavor to your favorite dishes.
Flash Freezing Method
When it comes to preserving dandelions, one effective method is flash freezing. This technique involves rapidly freezing the dandelions to retain their freshness and nutrients. To start, make sure you have fresh dandelion greens that are clean and dry. Remove any damaged or wilted leaves before proceeding.
Next, prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Lay the dandelion greens in a single layer on the baking sheet, making sure they are not touching each other. Place the baking sheet in the freezer and allow the dandelions to freeze quickly.
After the dandelion greens are frozen solid, transfer them into a freezer-safe bag or container. Be sure to label the container with the date to keep track of the storage time. When you’re ready to use the frozen dandelions, simply take out the desired amount and thaw them in the refrigerator or use them directly in your recipes.
Flash freezing dandelions is a convenient way to preserve this nutritious green and have it available for use in various dishes. Whether you want to add dandelions to smoothies, salads, or cooked dishes, having them frozen allows you to enjoy their benefits all year round.
Conclusion
Freezing dandelions is a great way to preserve their freshness and nutritional value for later use. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that your frozen dandelions retain their flavor and texture when you are ready to enjoy them.
Benefits of using freezer bags or containers:
- Freezer bags are convenient and easy to use for storing small portions of dandelions.
- Containers provide a more secure and airtight seal, preventing freezer burn and maintaining the quality of the dandelions.
- Both freezer bags and containers allow you to easily label and organize your frozen dandelions for quick identification.
DANDELION GREENS — FRESH, COOKED. FOOD STORAGE – HOW LONG CAN YOU KEEP.
FAQ
Can dandelion greens be frozen?
Dandelion green can be frozen for up to 1 year. To freeze dandelion greens, give them a quick wash before blanching for 30 seconds then bagging up to place into the freezer. Do Dandelion Greens Freeze Well? Sometimes Can You Refreeze Dandelion Greens? No
How do you store dandelion greens?
Here’s a simple guide on how to store dandelion greens in the refrigerator: 1. Prep the greens: Begin by washing the dandelion greens under cool running water to remove any dirt or impurities. Gently pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. 2. Moisture control: Wrap the washed and dry dandelion greens in slightly damp paper towels.
How do you cool dandelion greens?
To cool the blanched dandelion greens, prepare a large bowl filled with ice water. The ice water bath acts as a shock absorber, rapidly reducing the greens’ temperature and preventing them from overcooking or losing their vibrant color.
Why do you Blanch dandelion greens?
Blanching is an essential process in freezing dandelion greens as it helps preserve their texture, color, and nutritional value. By briefly immersing the greens in boiling water, enzymatic activity is halted, and any potentially harmful microorganisms are killed.
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