Wondering if you can store garlic scapes in the freezer? Many people enjoy the unique flavor of garlic scapes and want to preserve them for future use. Freezing is a common method of storing vegetables, but you may be unsure if scapes can withstand the freezing process.
What facts about Canada do people not believe until they come to Canada?
I speak from having been a Canadian visa officer for many years. Canadian visa officers used to interview people who were applying for permanent residence in Canada, and tried to counsel the successful ones. Nowadays interviews are not done as much. It is costly and a lot of the applications are processed on line. Maybe it is just as well because, much of the time, it was like talking to a brick wall. The prospective immigrant was there because they wanted to pass the interview and get the permanent resident visa. In many cases they already had a fixed view of what Canada was going to be like and were not about to change it. I interviewed many family class immigrants from the developing world and many of them really didn’t care what Canada was like other than that it was “richer” and had better medical care. They were just going to Canada to live with their family.
There was also the reality that, the concept of a government official giving out disinterested and helpful advice is not known in much of the world. Many of the prospective immigrants could not accept it. It is a challenge to their world view. If you have been conditioned all your life that, it is completely justifiable in self defence to cheat the government and that government workers are scoundrels, how can you accept that you are going some place where laws are there to be obeyed and that, civil servants are good people?
Canada Is One Item On The Menu
To many prospective immigrants, Canada is just one possible choice on a menu of countries that they might be admitted to. It is us, the USA, Australia, New Zealand, Britain, some of the European Union countries, Singapore, the Gulf countries and a few other places. Most of the prospective immigrants will not have visited these countries. Their decision, on which to apply to, is a mixture of whatever they imagine the facts to be, plus lots of hopes and dreams.
Canada can be a difficult prospect to get a “take” on. Internationally it is a very low profile country. Canada was never a colonizing power (Except for its internal colonialism.). It is not all that common for a prospective immigrant to see a media product made in Canada (Except, maybe, some film or TV series made up to look like it was happening in the USA.) Very little Canadian news gets covered outside of Canada.
Rather, country-seeking prospective immigrants tend to fall into the syndrome of imagining that Canada is part of “America”. We see it in questions in Quora, dreaming up two country Work Permits, easy cross border mobility, etc. This contention is that, Canada is a bearable second choice, because Canada is meant to be the same as the USA, except a little bit safer and colder. This type of thinking about Canada is a distinct bar to considering the facts.
Of course immense amounts of information about Canada are available on the Internet. Maybe there is almost too much. Filtering and assessing the information may be unbearable, and it may be disappointing. If you come from a country where the most useful and interesting information is deemed to be that which comes from family, friends, touts, or somebody you have met who travelled somewhere, why would you spend time struggling with information on the Internet, presuming you could afford the hours of online access that would be involved?
Learn It The Hard Way
Maybe it is inevitable for, not just immigration to Canada, but immigration to anywhere. There is going to be a lot of shock and pain. Easy transitions seldom happen. And some of the pain will go on, all your life. I think that, the reality that, by immigrating, you have left behind family and friends you may never see again, only kicks in when the plane lands at Toronto International Airport. And then, everything around you is not what you expected.
It would be interesting to hear from immigrants, how did you feel when your immigration processing at the airport of entry was completed, and they sent you off to pick up your bags? How did it feel on the ride into town, looking out the car window, and seeing a strange land and city scape? If you had to take a connecting flight from Vancouver or Toronto airports, to get to your final destination, how did it feel while you were waiting in the transit lounge, surrounded for the first time by Canadians? How did they look to you?
After that, there will be more shocks, from freezing rain, to sweating in a heavy winter coat at a shopping mall, to weird things that happen in the workplace. The immigrant gets confronted with one Canadian thing after another. There are small individual things, like how hard it is to slide your shoe inside a rubber boot. And then, there are bigger, more general ones, such as:
No, It Really Is Not Whatever You Thought America Was
The USA has a rather dramatic image to many foreigners. The American entertainment media churn out huge amounts of product that make their way to foreign markets. American politicians are often not at all adverse to a little drama. And then there is a pile up of feelings about American power in the world, that good old Yanqui imperialist aggression, American military boots on the ground, the CIA, the feeling of being second rate and subjugated because the USA, its military, its media and its economy, is so powerful.
So, if you finally fulfill your dream and get to immigrate to your first choice, what would you see in your daily life that had anything to do with this? Nothing resembles Hollywood, except maybe Hollywood. Americans tend to hang out at Walmart a lot more than they do at Mar A Lago or Big Sur. The new immigrant will meet a lot of Americans who lives revolve around putting food on the table and paying their hospital bills.
And then, if you only make it to Canada, the immigrant gets a North American double whammy. Virtually nothing looks glamorous. Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second stares back at you from the currency. No United States Congress, not even just one Senator causing the whole world to shake. Compare anything in Canada to anything in the USA, to a Canadian, and then brace yourself for passive-aggression and polite insults. Watch Canadian street life and realize that, in most of the country, there isn’t any. Ride the subways of Toronto or the Winnipeg Transit Buses, at the morning rush hour, and see stress personified, regardless of race, culture or creed.
How Can People Live In This?
When we were actually interviewing the prospective immigrants, there were a lot of things we were not allowed to say. Such as, you are moving to Winnipeg, my home town? Then get ready to lead the rest of your life in part-time Antarctica!
A lot of Canada’s more recent immigrants come from the warmer parts of the world. How can you describe January in Winnipeg to someone who has yet to see a toque or a scarf? How do you explain the centrality of a snow plow to human survival? How can you explain about freezing to death if it is 3:00 A.M. in Edmonton on a Sunday morning, you have had a bit too much to drink and you have fallen down into a snow bank? What about a blizzard on the Coquihalla Highway and Okanagan Connector, and you make your living by driving a truck, which slides off the road and falls a hundred hundred metres down a cliff? How about freezing rain in Moncton or an ice push on the southern shore of Lake Manitoba, flattening your cottage? What about Toronto hysteria in the face of what somebody in Quebec City would call the French-language equivalent of a light dusting?
Your immigrant can only learn it after they get here. Try shoving your child into a snowsuit at the start of their first winter.
How Can They Let Their Kids Do That?
Every country has things that are left unspoken, at least by respectable people. From experience, Canadian morality, particularly about family and sexual things, is something that immigrants can only see once they get here, and be shocked about.
What old stock Canadian parent is going to tell any immigrant, this is my sixteen year old daughter, and she gets laid on a regular basis? How about, my son is eighteen, and he very much enjoys getting in bar fights? Or, I just went down to the weed store and the whole family is going to share?
Were a shocked immigrant to ask me, I would say, “Look, in Canada, there is a difference between, “Show the neighbours that you and the kids are on your best behaviour, morality.”, and, “Do not judge me, my kids or this girl that I know at the office.”, morality. Some immigrants can never accept it, no longer how long they have been here. You could call it the “Canadian, Goody Two Shoes, and they don’t actually believe in it.”, dilemma.
How Come They Aren’t Happy And I Don’t Feel So Great?
Think of it. You have finally “got the immigration”, as they used to say in one country where my visa processing life existed.
And, you get there. And you even get a decent job. You are not living in Vancouver or Toronto so it is time to qualify for a mortgage. You go looking for one, and then you find out that Canadian fixed rate mortgages could reasonably be described as a crap game, at the end of every five year term.
Or, you get your first pay stub. You look at your wonderful gross, but then look at what is left after deductions for income tax, EI and CPP. Not as much as you thought, eh?
Then, try to find yourself a job that leads to a defined benefit pension, or any pension at all. Or, any job at all. Then find out that Canadians carry a lot of debt, among the highest per person in the world.
Or, you are actually living in Greater Vancouver or Greater Toronto. And you learn pretty fast, you are never going to own a house, ever.
Immigrants to Canada tend to be motivated by economic hope. There are always the success stories you want to hear, about wonderful salaries, big businesses built up from scratch and being able to afford luxurious holidays in the USA, even if you didn’t get to immigrate there. Not that many immigrants get to know about the devil in the Canadian economic details, until after they get here, and find out that they are going to have lots of their own devils.
Que Sera, Sera, Whatever Will Be, Will Be, The Future’s Not Ours to See
To be fair, I don’t think anybody but a desperate refugee could immigrate to Canada unless they had this attitude. If you knew too many facts, you would probably freeze up in fear and revulsion.
Just think if Canada required all prospective immigrants to take a comprehensive Canadian economic, climatic, and pretend values and real values (Don’t judge my daughter!) knowledge test, and the prospective immigrant wouldn’t be able to pass unless they studied hard for it. If the prospective immigrant didn’t think the whole thing was an exercise in negative propaganda so as to discourage them from coming here, they might possibly walk away in the general direction of Australia.
Maybe, for a prospective immigrant, it is the same as for a lot of life situations, you are better off if you don’t know until you get there.
Martin Levine
Garlic scapes, the curly green shoots that grow from garlic bulbs, can indeed be frozen. Freezing garlic scapes can help you extend their shelf life and enjoy their flavor even when they are out of season. However, there are certain steps you need to take to ensure that the frozen scapes retain their taste and texture.
By properly preparing and storing garlic scapes in the freezer, you can enjoy their delicious taste in various dishes throughout the year. In this article, we will explore the best practices for freezing garlic scapes so that you can enjoy their unique flavor whenever you please.
Freezing scapes: the advantages
Scapes are a flavorful and versatile ingredient that can add a unique touch to various dishes. Freezing scapes is a great way to preserve their freshness and enjoy their distinctive taste all year round. When freezing scapes, you can extend their shelf life and have them readily available whenever you need them.
One of the main benefits of freezing scapes is convenience. By freezing them, you can save time and effort in preparing meals as you can simply thaw them and add them to your recipes. This can be particularly helpful when scapes are not in season or are not readily available in your area.
Another advantage of freezing scapes is that it allows you to enjoy their nutritional benefits for a longer period. Scapes are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that can contribute to your overall health and well-being. By freezing scapes, you can retain their nutritional value and incorporate them into your diet even when they are not in season.
Furthermore, freezing scapes can help reduce food waste. Instead of letting scapes go bad and throwing them away, you can freeze them and use them at a later time. This not only saves money but also helps minimize your impact on the environment by reducing the amount of food that ends up in landfills.
In conclusion, freezing scapes is a convenient and practical way to enjoy their unique flavor and nutritional benefits. By freezing scapes, you can have them on hand whenever you need them, reduce food waste, and incorporate them into your diet year-round. So next time you have an abundance of scapes, consider freezing them to reap these benefits.
Preserving the Freshness of Scapes
When it comes to extending the shelf life of scapes, one of the most effective methods is freezing them. Freezing scapes allows you to preserve their freshness for a longer period, ensuring that you can enjoy their unique flavor and nutritional benefits even when they are out of season.
To freeze scapes properly, start by washing them thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Trim the ends of the scapes and cut them into the desired size for storage. Blanching the scapes before freezing can help maintain their color and texture. To blanch scapes, simply boil them in water for a short period, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
After blanching, pat the scapes dry and arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Place the baking sheet in the freezer until the scapes are completely frozen. Once frozen, transfer the scapes to airtight containers or freezer bags for long-term storage.
When storing frozen scapes, it’s essential to label the containers with the date of freezing to keep track of their freshness. Frozen scapes can be stored in the freezer for up to six months, ensuring that you have a supply of this versatile ingredient on hand whenever you need it.
Below is a simple table outlining the steps to freeze scapes effectively:
| Steps to Freeze Scapes |
|————————————–|
| Wash scapes thoroughly |
| Trim and cut scapes to desired size |
| Blanch scapes in boiling water |
| Transfer scapes to an ice bath |
| Pat dry and arrange on a baking sheet|
| Freeze on the baking sheet |
| Transfer to airtight containers |
| Label containers with freezing date |
By following these steps and properly storing frozen scapes, you can enjoy the fresh flavor and nutritional benefits of scapes year-round. Whether you use them in stir-fries, pesto, or soups, having frozen scapes on hand will enhance your culinary creations.
Extending Shelf Life
When it comes to preserving scapes, freezing is a great option to extend their shelf life. By freezing scapes, you can enjoy their unique flavor and nutritional benefits long after the growing season has ended. Freezing scapes is a simple and convenient way to ensure you have this delicious ingredient on hand for future culinary creations.
To freeze scapes, start by washing them thoroughly and cutting off any tough ends. You can then chop the scapes into small pieces or leave them whole, depending on your preference. Blanching the scapes in boiling water for a short time before freezing can help preserve their flavor and texture. After blanching, quickly cool the scapes in ice water to stop the cooking process.
Once the scapes are blanched and cooled, pat them dry and transfer them to airtight containers or freezer bags. Be sure to label the containers with the date so you can keep track of when the scapes were frozen. Properly stored, frozen scapes can last for several months in the freezer without losing their flavor or nutritional value.
When you’re ready to use the frozen scapes, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or use them directly in recipes without thawing. Frozen scapes are a versatile ingredient that can be added to soups, stir-fries, pesto, and other dishes to enhance their flavor. By freezing scapes, you can enjoy their unique taste and aroma throughout the year, making them a valuable addition to your pantry.
Preparing Scapes for Freezing
Garlic scapes are a versatile and flavorful ingredient that can be enjoyed in various dishes. If you have a surplus of scapes and want to preserve their freshness for later use, freezing them is a great option. Here is a simple guide on how to prepare scapes for freezing:
First, ensure that the garlic scapes are fresh and free from any blemishes or mold. Wash them thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Trim off the ends of the scapes to remove any tough or woody parts.
Next, decide how you want to freeze the scapes. You can either chop them into smaller pieces or leave them whole, depending on how you plan to use them later. If you choose to chop them, cut the scapes into uniform pieces of your desired size.
Once the scapes are prepared, blanching them before freezing can help preserve their flavor and texture. To blanch the scapes, bring a pot of water to a boil and add the scapes. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes, then quickly transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
After blanching, drain the scapes thoroughly and pat them dry with a paper towel. Place the scapes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for a few hours until they are firm. Once frozen, transfer the scapes to airtight containers or freezer bags for long-term storage.
When you’re ready to use the frozen scapes, simply take out the desired amount and thaw them in the refrigerator before incorporating them into your recipes. Frozen scapes can be used in soups, stir-fries, sauces, and other dishes to add a delicious garlic flavor.
By following these simple steps, you can enjoy the fresh taste of garlic scapes throughout the year, even when they are not in season. Freezing scapes is a convenient way to preserve this flavorful ingredient and make the most of your harvest.
### Washing and Trimming
When it comes to freezing scapes, one important step is washing and trimming them properly. Before freezing scapes, it is essential to thoroughly wash them to remove any dirt, debris, or pesticides that may be present on the surface. Start by rinsing the scapes under cool running water, gently rubbing them to ensure all dirt is removed.
After washing the scapes, it’s time to trim them to prepare them for freezing. Trim off any tough or woody ends of the scapes using a sharp knife or kitchen shears. Additionally, you may want to cut the scapes into smaller, more manageable pieces to make them easier to use when cooking after freezing.
Once the scapes are washed and trimmed, they are ready to be frozen. Properly washing and trimming the scapes ensures that they are clean and ready to use when you’re ready to cook with them. By following these steps, you can effectively freeze scapes and enjoy their delicious flavor even when they are out of season.
Blanching scapes
Blanching scapes is a simple and effective way to preserve the flavor and texture of these delicious and versatile vegetables. By blanching scapes, you can lock in their vibrant color and ensure that they maintain their crispness and flavor when frozen.
To blanch scapes, start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. While the water is heating up, prepare a bowl of ice water. Once the water is boiling, carefully add the scapes to the pot and blanch them for about 2-3 minutes. Be sure not to overcook them, as you want to preserve their crunchiness.
After blanching, quickly remove the scapes from the boiling water and transfer them to the ice water bath to stop the cooking process. This will help them retain their bright green color and prevent them from becoming mushy.
Once the scapes have cooled down, drain them thoroughly and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. You can then pack them into airtight containers or freezer bags and store them in the freezer for up to several months.
Blanching scapes before freezing them is a great way to ensure that you have a ready supply of this tasty vegetable on hand throughout the year. So go ahead and blanch those scapes to enjoy their fresh flavor even when they’re out of season!
Flash freezing
When it comes to preserving scapes, flash freezing is a quick and efficient method that helps retain the flavors and nutrients of the scapes. Flash freezing involves rapidly freezing the scapes at extremely low temperatures, typically below -18 degrees Celsius. This process helps to lock in the freshness of the scapes and prevent the formation of ice crystals, which can affect the texture and flavor of the scapes.
To flash freeze scapes, start by washing and trimming the scapes as needed. Cut them into manageable pieces, such as small sections or diced pieces, depending on how you plan to use them later. Then, spread the prepared scapes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place the baking sheet in the freezer and let the scapes freeze for about 1-2 hours, or until they are firm to the touch.
Once the scapes are frozen, transfer them to airtight containers or freezer bags for long-term storage. Label the containers with the date and contents for easy identification. When you’re ready to use the frozen scapes, simply remove the desired amount from the container and thaw them in the refrigerator or use them directly in your recipes.
Flash freezing scapes is a convenient way to enjoy the flavors of scapes all year round, whether they are in season or not. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your scapes stay fresh and delicious for months to come.
Conclusion: Thawing and using frozen scapes
When it comes to thawing and using frozen scapes, there are a few key points to keep in mind:
- Thawing method: Thaw frozen scapes in the refrigerator for best results. This gradual thawing process helps maintain the flavor and texture of the scapes.
- Using thawed scapes: Once the scapes are thawed, they can be used in a variety of dishes such as stir-fries, pasta, soups, and pesto. Be creative and experiment with different recipes!
- Storage: After thawing, any unused scapes can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days. Avoid refreezing thawed scapes as it can affect the quality of the produce.
- Benefits of frozen scapes: Frozen scapes are a convenient way to enjoy this seasonal ingredient year-round. They can add a burst of garlic flavor to dishes and are a versatile addition to your pantry.
HARVESTING GARLIC EARLY & FREEZING SCAPES FOR LATER | Connecticut Garden
FAQ
Can you freeze scapes?
Freezing plain, raw scapes is very easy and allows for the most flexibility in how you use the frozen scapes down the road. Wash your scapes and chop them into small pieces, around ¼ inch wide. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the chopped scapes onto it in a single layer.
Can you freeze garlic scapes?
If you are lucky enough to have too many to use fresh, you can freeze them! They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for several weeks, but preserving garlic scapes in the freezer will make them last a year or more. Here’s how to freeze garlic scapes so that you can enjoy them any time! It’s easy to preserve your garlic scapes by freezing them!
How do you store scapes?
You can store scapes based on how you plan to use them. If you want them readily available while you cook, you can store them in water at room temperature for a few days. For long-term storage, you’ll need to refrigerate or freeze the scapes to keep them fresh. Fill a glass or jar halfway with cool, filtered water.
Do scapes go bad?
Heat can cause the scapes to go bad quickly. Replace the water in the glass every day to keep it fresh. Remove the scapes from the water and pour the old water into the drain. Then, refill the glass with fresh, cool, filtered water and place the scapes back into the glass to use them as needed.
Leave a Reply