8 festive essentials you can freeze to overcome the Christmas food shortage
The food industry has been hit by a series of supply issues in recent weeks,
A combination of Brexit, the pandemic and the lack of truck drivers created a perfect storm in the supply chain, which left supermarket shelves empty.
The prime minister was unable to give an answer on when the issue will be resolved, sparking fears about shortages heading into Christmas.
READ MORE:Boris Johnson warns food shortages could last for months
However, financial experts at NetVoucherCodes.co.uk have advised Brits on eight lesser-known festive foods that can be kept in the freezer.
Most food stored in a freezer can last up to 3-4 months, and a spokesperson for NetVoucherCodes said Britons can avoid disappointment this Christmas by planning ahead.
They said, “By learning some of the amazing things you can freeze, you’ll stock up, help stop food waste, and save money in the process.
“Those worried about not having enough freezer space should decant items into freezable bags and get rid of any excess packaging to help keep some order. “
Eight Festive Foods You Can Freeze
1. Meat
Many stores are already raising concerns about Christmas stock levels.
To ensure a quality turkey or roast beef, buying and freezing these staples ahead of time might be the way to go.
However, before shopping, make sure that food will always be up to date and safe to thaw by Christmas Day.
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2. Brussels sprouts
A divisive item on the Christmas plate, the net coupon codes indicate that they can be easily grown at home to really save money, or bought in stores before the Christmas price hike.
Financial experts say a great tip for really capturing the full flavor is to blanch or roast them before freezing.
3. Parsnip
This honey-coated Christmas food will stay safe to eat for about nine months.
You can freeze them in small cubes or pieces. Blanching parsnips before freezing will retain their flavor and texture.
4. Cheese
A surprising addition to the list, the net coupon codes indicate that the cheese can be frozen as a whole block or grated.
Everything from mozzarella to Parmesan can be put in the freezer, but beware, cottage cheese can react badly.
5. Milk
Net voucher codes warn that frozen milk must be completely thawed before use, and advise people to shake the carton well before pouring it.
Milk expands when frozen, so don’t put it in an airtight container.
6. Bread
This should be frozen when cool otherwise it will be slightly stale when thawed.
You can freeze it in wholemeal bread or in individual slices if that’s easier. You can then let your bread thaw naturally or put it directly in the toaster.
7. Eggs
Eggshell cannot be frozen, but everything else can.
The best advice from Net Voucher Codes is to crack the eggs in a muffin tray and then place them in the freezer. Once completely frozen, they can be transferred to a plastic container, creating even more space.
8. Chocolate
Chocolate doesn’t contain a lot of water, which means it won’t change as much as other items when frozen or thawed.
Put the chocolate in the fridge for a few hours before placing it in the freezer, as this will help bring the temperature down slowly, reducing the risk of a change in flavor or appearance.
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