How to Freeze Bell Peppers and Hot Peppers

Peppers usually take a long time to develop the best color and flavors, which is why fall is the perfect time for harvest. However, there is a limit as to how many you can use fresh. Can you freeze bell peppers? It's possible – and quite simple! 

Fresh peppers add a delightful crunch to salads and sandwiches and make a great addition to any veggie tray. Because they contain so much water, bell peppers typically only last for about a week in the fridge, so it’s important to know how to preserve them for longer. Freezing bell peppers is easy, but depending on the variety, there are a few things to keep in mind. We’ll share our best tips and tricks. 

How to Freeze Bell Peppers: 6 Simple Steps

Freezing bell peppers is a great way to preserve that summer freshness, and ensure that you’re locking in the best flavor. You can easily freeze peppers using these six steps:

1. Wash the peppers thoroughly to get rid of any dirt or grime.
2. Using a sharp knife, remove the stems, seeds, and membrane.
3. Cut them however you’d like — strips, diced, halves, etc. 
4. Pat dry using a clean tea towel to remove excess moisture. 
5. Spread the peppers out on a cookie sheet lined with a silicone baking mat (available on Amazon**) so that they’re not touching.
6. Flash freeze until they’re firm (about an hour), and then transfer to a freezer-proof reusable container or silicone bag (available on Amazon**)

Your frozen bell peppers should be used within 3-4 months for best results. Wondering what to use them for? Consider using frozen peppers for fajitas, omelets, soups, stews, stir-fries, or chili. To retain texture, it’s best not to thaw the peppers before cooking; simply use them in the same way you would fresh peppers, just add on a few extra minutes of cooking time.

Remember: If you want to use your peppers for things like salads or for dipping in delicious vegan spreads, you’re better off grabbing a fresh one from the grocery store. Peppers that have been frozen won’t retain their crunch.

Read More: Freeze Foods without Plastic: 6 Sustainable Household Hacks 

Freezing Hot Peppers

Unlike bell peppers, hot peppers like jalapeños, serranos, habaneros, or cayenne are best frozen whole, but you may want to remove the seeds first. It’s a good idea to wear gloves when handling hot peppers, as the capsaicin (found in the seeds and veins of the pepper) can leave a residue on your hands which can be irritating when it comes into contact with eyes or sensitive skin. 

Whole hot peppers can be frozen in the same way as sweet peppers. Just be sure to avoid putting the sweet and hot peppers together if you want to avoid a potentially unpleasant surprise. 

Hot peppers will typically last up to 4 months in the freezer, and can be further processed into hot sauces, or used to add a kick to virtually any dish. 

Read more:

• Can You Freeze Onions? Yes – Here’s How
• Yellow Broccoli: Is It Safe To Eat?
• You Can Eat These Types of Squash Raw

Tags: Cooking Guide Practical Tips