Aisha Zakari
You have most likely seen cranberry relish on the tables of families and friends celebrating occasions like Christmas or Thanksgiving. On such occasions, there will likely be leftovers, depending on the portion made for the guests and their families. So, you find yourself asking or wondering, “Can you freeze cranberry relish?” The simple answer is yes; you can freeze cranberry relish.
Freezing cranberry relish is the best way to preserve its juicy and good taste for an extended period of time. However, there are a few tips to keep in mind when freezing, and we will be talking about them in this article. Before we tell you how you can freeze cranberry relish, let’s know what it is.
What Is Cranberry Relish?
If you have a sweet tooth, you definitely must have tried this. Cranberry Relish is a popular sauce that is served during Christmas and Thanksgiving. It is made from cranberries, apples, and, of course, sugar, which gives it a sweet and unique flavor. Spices such as lemon zest are added to give it a tangy taste that is delicious and sweet.
Cranberry relish can be made at home or bought from the store in cans. It is served as a side dish with waffles, roasted chicken, and spread on sandwiches, etc.
How To Freeze Cranberry Relish
If you’ve been wondering how you can freeze cranberry relish, below are the steps to take to properly freeze cranberry relish for up to 3 months:
STEP 1: Let It Cool Off
Before freezing, you want to make sure that the cranberry relish is cold and completely cooled. Keep in mind that relish needs to be cooled before freezing.
STEP 2: Packaging
Transfer relish into an airtight container or seal bag to freeze. Ensure you don’t fill the relish to the top; leave some space for the extension when it begins to freeze.
STEP 3: Label It, Then Freeze
Label the airtight container or freezer with the storage date using a marker pen. Place it in the freezer for 3 months.
How Long Can You Freeze Cranberry Relish?
You can freeze cranberry relish for up to 3 months in the freezer.
However, we recommend consuming cranberry relish within the first month of freezing it. When you freeze cranberry relish beyond three months, it begins to lose its original taste and flavor!
5 Tips For Freezing Cranberry Relish
The answer to the question, “Can you freeze cranberry relish?” is yes. Cranberry relish can be frozen safely in the freezer for up to 3 months. However, there are a few tips to keep in mind when you’re ready to freeze cranberry relish, follows these tips:
TIP 1: Let cranberry relish cool down completely before freezing.
TIP 2: Consider portioning cranberry relish into small sizes before freezing.
TIP 3: Push excess air out of freezer bags.
TIP 4: Label each freezer bag with the storage date before freezing This makes it easier to keep a record of how long it has been in the freezer for.
TIP 5: If using air-tight containers, do not fill them to the rim of the container. Leave some space for expansion when freezing.
How Do You Defrost Cranberry Relish?
When it comes to defrosting cranberry, relish, the best and safest way is to take it out of the freezer and transfer it to the fridge or refrigerator overnight.
You must give it adequate time to safely defrost. This way, you can maintain the texture and taste of cranberry relish.
How To Tell If Your Frozen Cranberry Relish Is Bad
Before serving or consuming cranberry relish, you want to make sure it has not gone bad even in the freezer. A bad cranberry relish shows the following indicators:
- Off and unpleasant taste
- Mushy appearance
- Discoloration
- Unpleasant odor
If you notice any of these signs with frozen cranberry relish, it is best and safe that you discard them immediately.
Can You Refreeze Cranberry Relish?
Refreezing cranberry relish is not advised. Once defrosted or thawed, it is best you place them in the refrigerator and consume them within a few days than refreezing. You should take out desired portions to defrost instead of taking everything out of the freezer.
Does Cranberry Relish Freeze Well?
Cranberry relish freezes extremely well. Provided the relish is packaged properly and stored in the freezer, it stays for about 3 months.
Conclusion
From the above writeup, it is safe to answer the question, “Can you freeze cranberry relish?” with a yes; it can be frozen successfully and can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Provided cranberry relish is stored properly, you can preserve them for that period. It is advised that you do not refreeze cranberry relish, this way, you maintain its freshness and original taste.
You could also check out: Can you freeze chili with kidney beans?
FAQs
Is it better to freeze cranberries or cranberry sauce?
The good news is that both can be frozen and freezes well in the freezer. Package cranberries or cranberry sauce in freezer bags, label them and place them in the freezer. Cranberries can stay in the freezer for 6-8 months while cranberry sauce stays for 3 months.
How long can you freeze homemade cranberry relish1?
Homemade cranberry relish can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. It freezes extremely well and when you’re ready to consume them, safely defrost them in the refrigerator overnight.
Is it OK to freeze cranberry sauce?
The best way to preserve cranberry sauce for longer periods is by freezing them. It freezes well and can stay in the freezer for about 3 months Store it in a freezer bag, push excess air out of them, and label it before placing it in the freezer
