Do frozen beans need to be blanched

Frozen beans usually require blanching to remove some harmful substances and maintain a better taste. Blanching beans before freezing can disrupt oxidase activity, reduce nutrient loss, and kill surface microorganisms. Although frozen green beans can inhibit bacterial growth at low temperatures, they cannot completely eliminate natural toxins such as plant hemagglutinin in green beans. Blanching treatment inactivates these heat-resistant ingredients through high temperature, avoiding possible gastrointestinal discomfort after consumption. When operating at home, you can wash the beans and blanch them whole. After boiling, keep them boiling for 1-3 minutes until the color turns bright green. Immediately remove them and rinse them with cold water to better maintain their crispy and tender texture. After blanching, the beans should be fully drained before being packaged and frozen to avoid excessive ice crystals affecting the taste after thawing.

Some pre packaged beans processed by the quick freezing process may have undergone hot pressing treatment, and products labeled as ready to eat or cooked on the packaging may be exempt from blanching. But in the case of directly freezing self harvested beans, especially when the pods are old or stored for a long time, it is recommended to thaw them and blanch them again. The cellulose structure of these types of beans is more compact, and sufficient heating can improve digestion and absorption rates, which is more necessary for people with weaker digestive function.

When handling frozen beans in daily life, in addition to blanching, attention should also be paid to the thawing method. It is recommended to transfer to the refrigeration room in advance and thaw slowly. In case of emergency, it can be soaked in cold water but not hot water. When cooking, you can choose to stir fry or stew, and pairing with garlic and other seasonings can enhance the flavor and help kill bacteria. It is recommended to extend the blanching time for frozen beans stored for more than three months. Before consumption, pay attention to observing for signs of deterioration such as frost lumps or odors.