Preserve the Harvest: Green Beans and Keeping It Fresh

by Shari@puregrace

Preserve the Harvest Series presents a new fruit or vegetable every Tuesday with the goal of helping you get the most out of fresh fruits and vegetables harvested during peak season.Preserving the harvest stocks your pantry shelves and freezer with whole foods that you can feel good about, foods that taste great, and this approach saves you money. A sane approach to sustainability! Next up…How to Freeze Green Beans.

gardening harvest green beans preserving fresh, gardening, homesteading

WHEN TO BUY GREEN BEANS

Green beans can be purchased almost any time of year but the best time to buy them is when they are in peak season in your area. That could range from anywhere between mid May through October all depending on the climate. Cooler areas will see beans peak later, while warmer climates like sunny southern California could see beans almost all year long.

HOW TO CHOOSE GREEN BEANS

When buying green beans it is best to buy those that are loose rather than already prepackaged. This gives you the option of picking out the freshest available. The pods should be bright green, crisp and without blemishes. Avoid wilted pods as they have been sitting too long. Beans come in different sizes depending on variety. Choose beans that are not overly large for the variety, the larger beans may have grown too long and could be tough and stringy.

HOW TO FREEZE GREEN BEANS

Green Beans require blanching, a high heat process that kills enzymes that cause the breakdown of sugar to starch. The breakdown is generally what causes the loss of flavor and texture in vegetables and fruits. There are several methods that can be used for blanching, but I prefer steaming when possible. This method stops the enzyme activity while still leaving much of the nutritional value of the food intact. Steaming is also one of the easiest methods without a lot of mess to clean up. Simple and effective works for me!

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2 comments

Douglas Hunt on Sep 11, 2014
I think we should put your first tip—buy local—in front of anything edible.

2 Reply
- Shari@puregrace on Sep 11, 2014
  @Douglas Hunt Agreed:)
  
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