Extension Educator, Family & Consumer Science,
Ohio State University Extension Do you have more tomatoes than you know what to do with? Tomatoes can be frozen after blanching for 30 seconds to loosen the skins. Core and peel. Freeze whole or in pieces. Pack into containers, leaving one-inch head space. Seal and freeze. Use for cooking or seasoning, as tomatoes will not be solid when thawed.
For more information bout canning or freezing tomatoes, contact the Ohio State University Extension, Sandusky County at 419-334-6340. Here are some other tips about freezing tomatoes and other Can frozen food be stored in refrigerator-freezer combinations? Refrigerator-freezer combinations can be used for storing frozen food if the freezer is a true freezer (will maintain 0°F or less) and not just a freezing compartment. A better quality product will be maintained at 0°F or less. If a freezing compartment is used, store food for only one to two weeks. Is it necessary to leave headspace in packages to be frozen? With the exception of vegetables that pack loosely, such as broccoli and asparagus, leave adequate headspace between packed food and closure. This allows for expansion of food as it freezes. Does freezing improve the quality of food? Freezing does not improve the quality of the product. Frozen food is only as good as the quality of the fresh food. So, select only high quality products at optimum maturity and freshness. How much food can be frozen at one time? Add only the amount that will freeze within 24 hours, which is usually two or three pounds of food per cubic foot of storage space. Overloading slows down the freezing rate. Also, foods that freeze too slowly may lose quality. What is freezer burn? It is dehydration or drying that occurs on the surface of a frozen product if it is improperly wrapped. The food is safe to eat but poorer quality. To prevent freezer burn, the package must be free of air and sealed airtight. How can you be sure that your freezer is at 0°F or less? Purchase a freezer thermometer, keep it in the freezer and check the temperature regularly. For more information, visit http://www.uga.edu/nchfp/questions/FAQ_freezing.html#1
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