Lime leaves are a fragrant and flavorful addition to many Asian dishes. While fresh lime leaves are preferred, you can also use frozen ones. Frozen lime leaves can be used in both cooked and raw dishes.
When using frozen lime leaves, it is best to add them at the end of cooking so they retain their flavor and aroma.
- Rinse the lime leaves with cool water to remove any dirt or debris
- Pat the leaves dry with a paper towel or clean dish cloth
- Place the lime leaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat
- Make sure the leaves are spread out in a single layer and not touching each other
- Freeze the lime leaves for 2-3 hours, or until they are completely frozen solid
- Once frozen, transfer the lime leaves to an airtight container or freezer bag and store in the freezer for up to 6 months
Can You Freeze Lime Leaves?
Lime leaves can be frozen, but they will lose some of their flavors. To freeze lime leaves, wash them and dry them thoroughly. Place the leaves in a freezer bag, and squeeze out as much air as possible.
Freeze the bag flat so that the leaves stay in one layer. Use within six months for best quality.
Do Lime Leaves Have to Be Fresh to Be Used
Lime leaves are a common ingredient in South Asian cuisine, often used to add flavor to curries and other dishes. While fresh lime leaves are always preferred, if you don’t have access to them, you can still use dried or frozen leaves. Dried lime leaves will need to be soaked in water for about 20 minutes before using, while frozen leaves can be added directly to your dish.
If you’re using dried or frozen lime leaves, you’ll want to use about twice as many as you would fresh.
How Do You Store Lime Leaves
Lime leaves are a common ingredient in many Asian dishes. They have a citrusy flavor and can be used fresh or dried. When storing lime leaves, it is important to keep them dry and away from direct sunlight.
Fresh lime leaves can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Wrap them in a paper towel or place them in a plastic bag before putting them in the fridge. Dried lime leaves can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 months.
Related post: Can you freeze kaffir lime leaves?
Conclusion
Lime leaves are a common ingredient in Thai and Vietnamese cuisine, adding a tart and citrusy flavor to soups, curries, and stir-fries. If you have a lime tree or can find fresh lime leaves at the grocery store, you may be wondering if you can freeze them for future use. The answer is yes!
Freeze lime leaves whole or chopped in an airtight container for up to six months. When ready to use, thaw the leaves in the refrigerator overnight before adding them to your dish.
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