Introduction
More so, having an adequately stocked freezer should be helpful in preparing emergency meals in the times of the rainy season. Convenience foods packaged for freezing give you choices for well-portioned, nutritious meals at any time as well as times when more preparation isn’t feasible. Below, are 29 Freezer Foods To Keep Stocked For Emergency Meals.
Table of Contents
Protein-Packed Freezer Staples
1. Frozen Chicken Breasts
Frozen chicken breasts are incredibly convenient and pack a lot of nutritional value for a meat item. These are good sources of protein and can be employed in many meal preparations – stir fry, casserole and the like. Pre-portioned trays are small and easy to freeze separately, so you don’t have to defrost more than you can use. Frozen foods do not spoil easily and the chicken is usually in the freezer for months hence is an ideal emergency food. Chicken breasts have to be one of the best items to be grilled, baked or boiled and frequently they offer a low-fat protein meal. It helps to have a couple in your freezer for those times when you need a quick and healthy meal.
2. Ground Beef
One more staple food product that contains a great deal of proteins is ground beef. It can be used in so many dishes like putting it in tacos, pasta sauces, in any kind of meatloaf and even in burgers. A freezing procedure in portion-sized bags make usage easier besides taking a shorter time to thaw. When the ground beef is stored in the freezer, it can be used for several months without determining bad quality. This is protein rich and contains other nutrient such as iron and zinc. For convenience try boiling and then freezing the mixture to make cooking much faster when preparing for your meals. From making a rich chili to a simple stir fry, ground beef is such a versatile product which can greatly enhance then base of any dish.
3. Frozen Shrimp
In its unfrozen state, shrimp is a low-fat, high protein food, which is quickly-cooked and serves as an ingredient in many dishes. Shrimp that has already been peeled and de-veined is convenient especially for meal in emergencies. As a side dish, as a main course or as a topping to any kind of vegetable stir fry pasta or salads shrimps always come out as a winner and healthy too. They also take very little time to thaw, and even less time to cook, making them ideal for those rushed days. Shrimps contain high protein, low fat and adequate amounts of nutrients such as selenium and vitamin B12. Freezing shrimp owner allows you to have a seafood dish whenever you need it without having to deal with preparation of fresh products.
4. Frozen Salmon
Salmon is one of the most nutritional-packed easy-to-freeze foods that are also packed with high amounts of protein. It also contains omega three oils which are good for the heart and the brain. The fillets are tender and quick to thaw and cook and so make very good meals especially in case you want your lunch or evening meal fast. You can fry them, barbecue them or sauté them because they are delicious when they are used to prepare food that is served with vegetables or grains. Each portion is created to be vacuum-sealed; this allows the food not to have a freezer burnt flavor. No matter if you are planning to prepare salmon salad with a few items or a luxurious dinner this fish is very useful to have when you run out of ideas for emergency meals that are both delicious and healthy.
5. Frozen Tofu
Frozen tofu is an awesome soy-based protein that is ideal for filling your pantry for those emergent situations. Pressing tofu takes its moisture out and Freezing tofu modifies its texture and helps it absorb the marinade or spices better. Soy also makes a good side dish, but it can be used in stir-fries, soups, and in replacement of meats in other foods also. One good thing about tofu is that it is a protein food with aid of essential amino acids thus perfectly OK for vegan/vegetarian diets. To freeze, drain and dice tofu, the portions in respective airtight containers. Frozen tofu can be baked, fried or grilled and make a healthy and delicious meal anytime it is prepared.
Versatile Vegetables for Quick Meals
6. Frozen Spinach
This product is quite popular as a freezer vegetable since frozen spinach is a very nutritious product to include in your diet. Contain vitamin A, C, K and thus improve bone health, body immunity and overall health. It’s washed and precut, so it can be used as an ingredient in cooking preparations such as soups, mixed beverages, pasta, and quiches. Frozen spinach is not the same as fresh spinach; it has a relatively short shelf life but contains nearly all of the nutrients. All that is required from the product is to be thawed and drained before using them in the preparation of other dishes. From lasagna to fruit smoothies, spinach frozen makes it easy to add some simplicity, as well as the nutritional value of your meals boost.
7. Frozen Broccoli Florets
Frozen broccoli florets are useful and remain a nutritious frozen food to keep in your freezer. It is enriched in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants; increases digestion and immune mechanism. Easily accessible and pre-cut for use, frozen broccoli spares cooks the time they would have taken preparing the veggie. It’s best for steaming or roasting or even can be used in stir-fries, soups, or casseroles. Harvested and immediately frozen, it keeps its nutrients, and of course, green quality without the nerve-wracking process of trying to get them. If you employ it as a side dish, or combine with proteins in order to create a rather filling meal, frozen broccoli florets are a convenient solution for your rushed days as well as they bring intense taste and satisfying consistency on the table.
8. Mixed Vegetables
Frozen mixed vegetables are convenient, easy to use and are very nutritious for preparing balanced diets. Usually consisting of such ingredients as carrots, peas, corns, and beans, they come in a similar package providing different textures and tastes. Selected and washed prior to packaging, they help also reduce the cooking preparation time and that makes them ideal for soups, fried rice, casserole or stews. When flash-frozen, mixed vegetables maintain their vitamin and mineral content so you can eat their nutritious benefits anytime. Whether it is just a stir fry in minutes or a rich pot pie, the mixed vegetables are a dependable: white uncomplicated and convenient- and perhaps the most colorful and easy way to increase the nutritional value of your food.
9. Frozen Peas
Frozen peas are a staple in the freezer for those sudden craving of healthy meals. They also contain dietary fiber, and are rich in plant protein and containing vitamins C and K. These are naturally sweet and greenish in color; perfect to be used in soups, salads, stir-fry dishes or an independent vegetable dish. Quick and easy to prepare, they require little time yet they provide the meals nutrients and full taste. Freezing does not affect the quality of frozen peas and they are exactly as healthy as fresh peas. Convenient to make, they’ve a boom of taste and health to any meal, enabling you prepare scrumptious meals in a wink!
10. Frozen Corn
Frozen corn is a very important ingredient that adds great taste and texture in our foods. It contains fiber and vitamins B and C, antioxidants that are good for digestion and the body in general. Used in variety of preparation method such as in soups, salads, casseroles or best in its raw form as a side dish. Laboratory corn is available all throughout the year, which is healthy and as nutritious as fresh corn since it is flash frozen at its freshest. It’s easy to make as all one needs to do is boil, steam, or microwave for about several minutes. From making cornbread, tacos or a thick chowder, frozen corn has become an essential ingredient in almost all households as it’s quick and healthy.
Ready-to-Cook Meal Components
11. Frozen Pizza Dough
Frozen pizza dough is a mostly unknown yet quite useful product that allows having a dinner without much hassle in case of emergency. It saves the hassle of having to prepare the dough in advance although it lets you fix your pizzas in the way you would prefer. In addition to making pizza, it is ideal for use in preparing calzones, breadsticks or any flat bread. Use the following preparation: when needed, thaw the dough and, within minutes, you will have the base for countless recipes. The dough being frozen at the pinnacle, the dough maintains the elasticity not to mention the texture one desires: fluffy or crispy crust. Frozen pizza dough is always useful when you want a quick homemade dinner or when baking a creative baking project.
12. Frozen Waffles
Frozen waffles should always be a staple because it’s quick and easy for breakfast or an instant snack. In general, semi-cooked and excellent when reheated, they help to save time and do not lose their performances in taste and consistence. As a breakfast food, waffles can be served with syrup or fresh fruits with the same effect as spreading a nut butter. The rice as a breakfast supplementation should be noted as they can be useful in a number of desserts or savory recipes. Frozen waffles have a good re-heating qualities and they do not get ruined with their taste when heated Further, they are easy to store. They are particularly useful for single people or families as they provide a simple, completely enjoyable meal that is ready in just minutes and should be a staple in any freezer.
13. Frozen Dumplings
Frozen dumplings are simply convenient meal solutions which provide consumers with almost any type of tasty experience they may be searching for. They are available with different types of fillings; vegetables, chicken or pork to meet people’s tastes and preferences or dietary habits. They come prefabricated and convenient, for steaming, boiling, or pan-frying, yet customized by the taste and aroma of homemade dishes. Shaped like appetizers, main course meals or snacks, dumplings can be taken with a side dip, sauce or soup. Keeping their juiciness and tenderness when frozen, it is really comfortable to have this meal sometimes when you have no real desire to cook a lot, but still want to sit down for a tasty dinner.
14. Frozen Pasta
Frozen pasta is a convenient product that helps to cook tasty meal very quickly. It stands a chance of being pre-cooked, frozen and still retains a very fresh taste the moment it is cooked saving on cooking time. It comes in different variety such as ravioli, tortellini or just plain pasta, the ideal product for preparing stiff meals with ease. couple frozen pasta to sauces, vegetables or proteins for a healthy and hearty meal ready in no time. high shelf stability makes it ideal for use in case of an emergency or haste occasions like special meals. Regardless of whether you prepare a creamy Alfredo, saucy marinara or a simple butter and garlic pasta, frozen pasta comes in hand to boost your freezer meals.
15. Frozen French Fries
Ready-made French fries when purchased and stored in the freezer makes for easy snacking, or a quick side dish. Thick, soft as well pre-sliced partially baked, Ready Chips mimic the normal crispy outer layer and amazing taste as of actual potatoes however, there’s no need to peel and slice potatoes. They’re great even for baking, frying or air frying and takes not more than five minutes if served alongside burgers, sandwiches or dips. Since these foods are frozen, they will be fresh at the time they are frozen. No matter the kind of fries you love – thin cut, wedges or crinkle cut, this makes frozen French fries an easy standby that the whole family will enjoy.
Fruits for Smoothies and Snacks
16. Frozen Berries
Frozen berries like strawberry, blueberry and raspberry are basic freezer ingredients used for making up smoothies or any time snacks. Filled with vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, they help body fight off infections and diseases. Whether fresh or frozen, berries are excellent when rocked and rolled in smoothie mixes, mixed into yogurt, and baked into muffins and pies. Freezing maintains their natural taste and nutrients in the fruit, making them to be as healthy as fresh fruits when eaten like strawberries. Perfect for use directly from the pack, they take less preparation time and add flavor and color to your meals. Frozen berries are healthy and tasty additions to any freezer.
17. Frozen Mango Chunks
Frozen mango chunks are one of the tastiest and most colorful additions that a freezer can hold. Vitamin A and C makes them good for boosting immunity and health benefits of the skin. They are too small to be used in large amounts in any recipe but it is easy to prepare and can be used as a topping for smoothies, salsas or anything like ice cream or sorbet. Freezing options meant to lock in characteristic moisture, as well as tenderness, of the locks to make them as fresh as possible. Mango chunks also can be served frozen and used as an ice treat in boiling summer days. Enhance your diet by adding the frozen mango chunks to your meals, use them in making a tropical smoothie, or incorporate them into yogurts parfaits for your emergency meal preparation.
18. Frozen Bananas
Bananas stored in the freezer are a great addition to any household’s repertoire of frozen ingredients and are excellent for smoothies, baking or as a treat. They are a can source of potassium, fiber, and natural sugars and make one feel energetic after taking them. I buy them ripe and frozen so that it includes succulent texture and natural sweetness. They can be used to thicken smoothies, used in banana bread recipes, and even be made into a natural frozen desert. The garlic must be peeled and cut ready for usage then placed in a freezer. Frozen bananas are a good way to make food storage and cost efficient while always being able to have a healthy dessert or ingredient readily accessible.
19. Frozen Pineapple
This product has a unique taste that is sweet, and slightly sour similar to Pineapple with lots of benefits such as a source of vitamin C, digestion and immune booster. The pre-cut portions are conveniently frozen and ready to be used or ‘fresh’ and succulent when Ordering. The chunks are ideal in tropical smoothies, fruit salad or as a grilled vegetable. They also make a fairly good snack on their own, or can also act as an ingredient in cocktails or non-alcoholic beverages. Frozen pineapple, which is very handy and with countless applications, is great as many other frozen foods which benefits and taste may be enjoyed at any season, so it should be a part of the freezer section.
20. Frozen Cherries
Frozen cherries are one of my favorite freezer fruits: These cherries have their inherent sweetness and a hint of sourness. Cucumbers have huge benefits, comprise of anti-oxidants, vitamin C, and melatonin for better sleep and health. Comin tree ripened and all ready to go, make your blends, desserts and sauces, all smooth. Frozen cherries are flavor and nutritional intact allowing you to enjoy them by time of preference. Use them in oatmeal or bake them in a pie or try a fruity sweet delight and blend them into a smoothie. Frozen cherries can be eaten fresh, or used in meals as they are so useful in giving an extra zing to the food and the color.
Easy Heat-and-Eat Options
21. Frozen Soups
Frozen soups offered the usability associated with heat-and-eat foods that many people prefer on crowded schedules. Raw and packaged, pre-portioned, they also do not require cooking time yet they are healthy. They are easily found in different flavors; including tomato, chicken noodle, and vegetables, thus satisfying different customers. Frozen soups contain nutrients and flavors and can be a fast food solution when people decide they are hungry. Nevertheless, they should best be eaten with bread or crackers for a more filling and healthier meal. Freezing soup is perfect for holding it for lunch, dinner or any time you feel like having a quick bite.
22. Frozen Lasagna
Frozen lasagna is good old comfort that never disappoints because, with such dishes, dinner is ready in a few minutes. It’s a staple, family-friendly dish comprising many layers of pasta, lavish sauerkrauts and molten cheese. Frozen form and pre-assembled, prepared and convenient to cook right from the freezer. Just place it in the oven or heating it in the microwave, what else you have a filling dinner ready prepared for you. When cooked, frozen lasagna also doesn’t compromise on taste, and texture making it very delicious. Frozen lasagna can be nutritious, tasty, and convenient no matter whether it is cooked to be eaten by a large family or enjoyed alone.
23. Frozen Burritos
Frozen burritos are a very tasty, excellent and convenient meal that’s quite easy to prepare, healthy and very rich in nutrition. Stuffed with beans, boiled rice, green vegetables or meat, they can be prepared to suit different classes of dietaries. They are packed in advance and can be eaten for breakfast on the run, lunch, or supper. Just warm them in the microwave or oven and suddenly you are presented with a tasty meal within just a few minutes. The very important thing that can be kept up to 6 months is a tastefully and texture-friendly product known as frozen burritos. Having widely different tastes they provide the variety and gratification without much work.
24. Frozen Stir-Fry Kits
Instant Food Stir Fry kits are perfect for convenience meals which should be health wise. It usually comes pre-sliced, meaning that you don’t have to chop the vegetables on your own; it comes with a sauce. You can then add your protein of choice including chicken, tofu or shrimp for a full meal in less than 10 minutes. Frozen stir fry kits have a longer storage time hence you enjoy fresh and nutritious foods with good flavor. Great for weeknights, they have an option for whatever people want. To prepare them and give them a nutritional boost, heat them in a skillet or wok and they’re ready in minutes, making them ideal to store in the freezer.
25. Frozen Pancakes
You can make frozen pancakes a staple breakfast meal since it’s easy to prepare, and more importantly, tasty. These are pre-cooked, pre-frozen at their freshest so you can easily re-heat and get them on the table within a matter of minutes. Delighting for breakfast, particularly on a tight schedule, they are good with syrup, fruits, or any nut butter for a meal. They do not compact and crumble during the freezing process and so you get a warm healthy breakfast to start your day. They’re also very useful as a platforming for some fantastic sweet or savory dishes. Delicious and easy to prepare, the frozen pancakes are as important a freezer staple as the waffles; they are an excellent breakfast or snack food.
Miscellaneous Essentials
26. Frozen Bread Loaves
Loaves of frozen bread are one of the most common and useful products in a freezer. Its convenient to prepare snack with them since they don’t spoil, cutting down on meals wastage. Perfect for a sandwich or toast or dinner rolls it helps to avoid going to the bakery. Just keep it frozen and whenever you want bread that has been baked fresh you simply thaw it and bake it. The products also do not sweat when frozen and they can be made to look as good as new bread; the moment they are placed in the oven. Great for use in an emergency, they can be toasted into garlic bread, croutons or converted into dessert foods such as bread pudding. Frequent interruption of house activities by invitation to sundry events, or the existence of guests makes it inevitable to have a frozen bread loaf in the freezer.
27. Frozen Herbs
Introducing frozen herbs in your kitchen is another convenient idea which will help you to make delicious meals same as with fresh herbs but without cutting them. Low-moisture, pre-washed, and pre-portioned parsley, cilantro and basil are perfect for soups, sauces and marinades. That way, you keep the frozen herbs in their flavor and nutrient content, making your dishes rich in color and flavor as well. That makes them rather ideal for cuts’ usage, as these plants are utilized in longer terms than fresh herbs for consumption. Just throw them in as they bring some rich taste into the food you are preparing. They are ideal for proper and convenient Emergency Cooking and making your meals taste better with the addition of frozen herbs. You can also learn about food that are super healthy.
28. Frozen Cheese
Frozen cheese is used in cooking in many various meals, including pizzas and casseroles among others. Such as the shredded mozzarella, cheddar or parmesan easily can be frozen and do not lose their flavors and solidity after defrosting. Although it defrosts easily, to make it easier during cooking or baking, frozen cheese is ideal for quick meal preparation. That makes it a great solution if it can be used to help increase the shelf life of products and decrease the level of waste in the food chain. When it is used to garnish pasta dishes, melted over sauces and incorporated into other dishes, frozen cheese brings depth of flavors. Whenever you want some good, tasty and warm dishes filled with cheese – if you have frozen cheese at home, you are all set.
29. Frozen Meatballs
The best investment that most people with busy schedules engage in is the preparation of frozen meatballs since they provide easily portable proteins for convenient consumption. They are practically precooked Meals that can be easily reheated and taken with pasta or rice or even vegetables. Present in different varieties such as plain beef or turkey, it meets per different tastes. Another advantage of frozen product is certain that meatballs remain juicy and tasty during reheating which is always big plus for emergency meals. Just use them for marinara sauce for spaghetti meals or include in soups to complete a satisfying meal. From a simple bite to eat in the middle of the week or feeding your family on a Friday night, a bag of previously frozen meatballs is the perfect addition to any freezer.
Conclusion
Frozen foods in particular are perfect as the basis of easy, fast, and healthy meals when the refrigerator is just steps away. Whether you choose discounted frozen foods, meats, vegetables, or lean protein, a freezer always stocked with a variety of entrees and side dishes. Thus, cooking ease makes decision about meal preparation a relative cinch: simply take out the frozen fruits, the ready-to-cook components like the frozen pancakes, the frozen lasagna and so on. Also, it’s important to focus on the working storage which includes frozen herbs/bread and cheese for the variety of the meals. Having these 29 freezer foods on hand means you can always whip up great meals in a jiffy avoiding lots of effort in the kitchen.