TIPS & TRICKS: CARROTS - CELERY - ONIONS

 

If there were a freezer hall of fame, this trio would have its own wing. Carrots, celery, and onions form the flavor foundation of countless soups, stews, sauces, casseroles, and slow-cooker meals. Freezing them together means you're always just minutes away from a great meal.

Before You Freeze

Store all three vegetables in the refrigerator until you're ready to preserve them.

• Carrots keep best in the crisper drawer.
• Celery stays fresh longer when wrapped tightly or stored in an airtight container.
• Onions should be stored in a cool, dry place until cut, then refrigerated if needed.

Don't wait until they start getting soft or wilted. Freeze them while they're still fresh and flavorful.

Method

Wash and prep the vegetables:

• Peel carrots if desired and dice.
• Trim and chop celery.
• Peel and dice onions.

For the best quality, blanch the carrots and celery before freezing:

• Carrots: 2 to 3 minutes
• Celery: 1 minute

Onions do not require blanching.

Drain thoroughly and pat dry. Combine the vegetables in a freezer bag using the classic mirepoix ratio: 2 parts onion, 1 part carrot, and 1 part celery. Freeze flat so the bags stack easily and thaw quickly.

Best Uses

This freezer mix is perfect for:

• Soups and stews
• Chili
• Pot pies
• Pasta sauces
• Casseroles
• Stuffing and dressing
• Slow-cooker meals
• Homemade stock

Simply pour the frozen mixture directly into a hot pan and start cooking. No thawing required.

Freezer Life

10 to 12 months for best quality.

Pro Tip

Package your mirepoix in recipe-sized portions, such as 2- or 4-cup bags. Future-you will thank present-you when a winter soup craving hits and the chopping is already done. One bag of this classic vegetable blend is like a head start on dinner.