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Posted: 7/2/2009 6:54 PM

#287883

	RossB

	Member

Total Posts:131
Last Post:11/17/2009
Member Since:8/16/2004

Subject: Leftovers

Being single I've learned a few tricks. Over the weekend I'll sometimes roast a whole chicken. Then I strip the meat off and use the carcass for stock. During the week I'll do things like chicken enchiladas, chicken risoto, chicken with pasta and of course, chicken soup. A beef roast offers its own possibilities. I like that strategy because when I come home from work I rarely want to face a cooking chore, so something simple with leftover ingredients is ideal.

I'm still having a difficult time liking any meat I freeze - it seems to really change the texture. . .So, if I make a stew for example, it's either eat it for successive meals over a few days, or freeze it and deal with the consequences.

Save the earth. It's the only planet with chocolate.

Posted: 10/19/2009 4:19 PM

#294427

	Canned Nerd

	Member

Total Posts:31
Last Post:11/15/2009
Member Since:9/24/2008

Sounds to me like you are getting freezer burn because of insufficient protection of the items you freeze. Air is the enemy and regular plastic bags and containers do not keep the air out. It is made worse if your freezer is "frost-free" which causes a regular defrost/freeze cycling and fan blowing air around the food.

I personally recommend that you use a FoodSaver vacuum sealer for your food storage and your taste/texture problem should disappear and your safe storage time increases substantially.

[Edited on 10/19/2009]

Posted: 10/20/2009 11:58 AM

#294458

	kae xera xera

	Member

Total Posts:507
Last Post:11/15/2009
Member Since:3/29/2008

I read or heard somewhere that you should wrap items before freezing in aluminum foil. I have a FoodSaver, but I use the pop up wraps first, and have had excellent results. The foil clings tightly to the food item and seems to keep out air.

"Age improves with wine."

Posted: 10/27/2009 3:15 AM

#294855

	CaKaren

	Member

Total Posts:4
Last Post:10/27/2009
Member Since:10/27/2009

I wrap it always up in something if I intend to freeze it. According to my experience it's the better way.

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