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Mastering Food Storage: What Food to Start with in Freeze Drying

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If you’re excited about starting your food storage journey or improving your current setup, you’re in for a treat. Let’s talk about where to start freeze drying.

Today, we’re diving into what food to start with in freeze drying and how to make the most of your freeze dryer, especially after a move or during seasonal changes.

Setup and Chaos Management

Moving can throw everything into chaos, and I know this first-hand. After relocating and waiting to get things in order, I finally decided it’s time to restart my freeze drying routine. It’s been a few months since I made a food storage run, and my freezers are begging to be filled again. If you’re in the same boat, trust me, it’s doable, even if your house feels like a whirlwind of boxes and remodeling projects.

Starting Fresh: What Food to Begin With

When kick-starting your freeze drying, it’s smart to begin with vegetables. They are quick to process and easy to store. Here’s what I’m focusing on:

Brussels Sprouts: These little wonders are favorites in my house. They take about 20-24 hours per load.
Broccoli: This is even faster, needing around 16 hours.
Peppers and Onions: Ideal for adding flavor to any dish and quick to freeze dry.

Veggies are your best bet because they take less time and space. They also provide essential nutrients, making them a top choice for initial loads.

Expanding Your Freeze Drying Horizons

After tackling vegetables, it’s time to move on to other essentials:

Raspberries and Raspberry Jams: These are delicious and great for desserts and snacks.
Ground Meats: Perfect for meal prep, ground meats like turkey are versatile and easy to store.
Prepared Onions: These are a staple in many recipes and save time during cooking.

While I usually don’t freeze dry steaks and roasts, I’m considering cubing them this time to maximize my storage.

Planning Your Garden and Storage

Spring is the perfect time to plan your garden. Whether you’re doing a full garden or container gardening, think about what you want to freeze dry:

Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are a must. I’m getting mine from a family friend who’s starting her business.
Tomatoes: Don’t forget these versatile gems that can go into so many dishes.

Make a list of what you have and what you need. This will help you decide on future purchases and what to grow.

Overcoming the Chaos

Don’t let disorganization stop you. My house is still under renovation, with a garage full of unpacked items. Despite this, I’ve decided to prioritize my food storage. If you’re in a similar situation, here are a few tips:

Start Small: Focus on one area at a time, like vegetables, to keep it manageable.
Use Available Space: Even if you don’t have your kitchen set up, a folding table can work for now.
Embrace Container Gardening: If your outdoor space isn’t ready, use containers to grow essential vegetables and fruits.

Community and Resources

Community support is invaluable. Connect with local farmers or neighbors who raise chickens or cattle. Here in Missouri, I’m considering buying a cow. Local resources can be a treasure trove for your food storage needs.

Here are some suppliers I recommend:

Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds: Fantastic selection and based in Missouri.
Morgan County Seeds: Another excellent local resource.
Burpee Seeds: Known for their quality and availability.

Final Thoughts

It’s time to get proactive about your food storage. Don’t wait for the perfect conditions. Start with easy-to-freeze-dry vegetables and build from there. Your future self will thank you for taking these steps now.

Stay tuned, hit subscribe, and follow along as we navigate this exciting journey. A big shout-out to my daughter Taylor for her fantastic camera work. Let’s get started on emptying those freezers and filling those shelves!

Thanks for joining me on this adventure. Let’s make the most of our freeze drying experience.