How to freeze chanterelles to savor their flavor year-round

The chanterelle season is a true feast for the palate. However, these forest treasures are only available for a few months yearly. To enjoy their unique aroma all year round, it's worth considering freezing them. But how do you prepare chanterelles for freezing so they retain their delicate flavor and don't become bitter? Here's how!

Freezing chanterelles is an excellent way to preserve their freshness and aroma for longer. This way, we can enjoy the taste of forest mushrooms even in winter. Frozen chanterelles are a perfect addition to many dishes: soups, sauces, fillings, and even pizzas.

Cleaning:

• Gentleness is key: Chanterelles should be cleaned gently with a soft or small brush.
• No soaking: Avoid soaking chanterelles in water. They absorb too much moisture, which can affect their taste and texture after thawing.
• Quick rinse: If the chanterelles are very dirty, briefly rinse them under running water, but dry them thoroughly afterward.

Thermal treatment:

    
• Blanching: The most popular method for preparing chanterelles for freezing is blanching. This involves briefly parboiling the mushrooms in boiling, salted water. This helps them retain their firmness and color.
• Steaming: Another option is steaming the chanterelles. This method allows for gentle preparation of the mushrooms and retains more nutrients.
• Frying: You can also briefly fry the chanterelles in a dry pan until they release their juices.

Freezing:

• Portions: Freeze the chanterelles in portions you will use for specific dishes.
• Quick freezing: To avoid large ice crystals that can damage the mushrooms' structure, freeze them as quickly as possible. You can use special freezing containers or airtight bags for this purpose.
• Labeling: Each package of frozen chanterelles should be properly labeled, including the freezing date.

Frozen chanterelles are best stored in a freezer at 0°F for up to 8 months.

The best way to thaw chanterelles is to move them from the freezer to the refrigerator a few hours before using them. They can also be thawed directly in a pan by adding a bit of fat.

Chanterelles are incredibly versatile mushrooms that pair well with many dishes. Frozen chanterelles can be added to soups, sauces, risotto, pasta, and meat and vegetables. It's worth properly preparing them so you can enjoy their flavor and aroma all year round.