Did you ever dig into a salad and think ‘Hmm… this needs something with a little more, well, crunch?’ Who among us hasn’t looked upon our organic broccoli and mused: ‘I bet this would be even better if someone took it, zapped it with liquid nitrogen and smashed the hell out of it in a blender at 80,000 RPMs?’ Welcome to the brave, new world of culinary experimentation – freeze-dried broccoli is here!
Introduction to Freeze-drying
But often the function of freeze-drying isn’t about preservation at all. Rather, by stopping life and helping the fruit retain more of its nutritional properties while imparting an entirely new quality of texture, the finished product is caught in the act of becoming.
The Freeze-drying Process
How does this work? The broccoli – first frozen rapidly, and now under a vacuum – will make use of the fact that a small amount of ice will change to vapour, or H2O[solid] = H2O[g], without ever existing in a liquid phase. This ‘sublimation’ is a common cleaning trick. It spares most of the target material from contact with solution and heat, avoiding disturbance of stable crystal structures, while the rinsing action draws solutes out of cracks and fissures to be whisked away by passivating gas (sometimes, water). In short, freeze dryers make ‘scientific-grade’ nutrients available as ‘table-grade’ food. In other words, intense freeze drying maximises the nutrient availability of food while minimising its compromise as a culinary experience. It had not occurred to me that the flavourless ghastliness that was in front of me now was a deliberate calibration of the technology The broccoli leaves take on their original colour as most of the water is driven off in what food scientists call sublimation, the instantaneous change from the solid to the gas phase. Neat!
Benefits of Freeze-drying
Not only it retains the foodstuff’s goodness but also its shelf life. A complete win-win situation for all. And no additives added!
Broccoli: The Unsung Culinary Hero
Once so maligned as the backwoods mule of the vegetable kingdom, broccoli has been waiting in the weeds for its day in the sun. Now is the time.
Nutritional Powerhouse
Broccoli is rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, with respectable quantities of Vitamins C and K1, folate and a fair amount of protein.
The Perfect Green for Salads
Thanks to its smooth, buttery texture and delicate flavour, broccoli can be tossed into a salad, a win-win in terms of taste and nutrition.
Why Freeze-dried Broccoli?
Freeze-drying does wonders to this already wonderful veggie.
Retaining Nutrients
The fact that we freeze-dry essentially preserves all the nutrients of the fresh stalks means we can still have the same healthy broccoli, if not more.
The Unique Crunch
The genes that code for starch synthesis become inactivated during the process of freeze-drying, ensuring that your broccoli florets will have an extra crunch in the salad.
How to Use Freeze-dried
Broccoli in Salads
So now that you’re convinced it’s a good thing, how does it actually work (or should work)?
Incorporating in Traditional Salads
Toss in some freeze-dried broccoli instead of the fresh variety in your standard salad: the extra crunch is an unexpected delight.
Creating New Culinary Delights
And now go to town. Mix these broccoli bits with nuts, seeds or even fruit. The world is your oyster!
Storing and Maintaining Your Freeze-dried Broccoli
You've got your stash. Now, how do you keep it at its best?
Shelf Life and Storage
Recommendations
Store them in a place that remains cool and dry. Most of your freeze-dried broccoli can stay fresh for up to one year in these conditions.
Rehydrating for Other Dishes
Need to use them for non-salad foods? Soak them for a few minutes in water, and they’re ready.
Conclusion
This freeze-dried broccoli is nothing more (nor less) than another proof of how clever processing accomplishes miracles with old ingredients. So vis next salad you might find the crackle of these little florets!
FAQs
Can I use freeze-dried broccoli in dishes other than salads?
Absolutely! Just rehydrate them first.
How does freeze-drying affect the taste of broccoli?
It retains the natural flavor but adds a unique crunch.
Are there any additives or preservatives in freeze-dried broccoli?
Typically, no. Always check the product label to be sure.
Is freeze-dried broccoli more expensive than regular broccoli?
Because of the process, it will often be a little more expensive, but the increased shelf life and unique texture usually make it worth it.
Can I freeze-dry broccoli at home?
For Australians with a taste for freeze-dried vegetables, there are home models, but they could set you back some hundreds of dollars. Buying the pre-packaged seems the easier option.