When it comes to long-term food storage, freeze drying is a great way to preserve your favorite meals and snacks. By removing the water content from your ingredients, you can create lightweight, shelf-stable products that are perfect for backpacking trips, emergency supplies, or just stocking up for the future.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 delicious freeze dryer recipes that you can make at home using your own freeze dryer or purchasing pre-made products online. From sweet treats like banana chips and blueberry pancakes to savory meals like chicken noodle soup and chili con carne, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out with freeze drying, these recipes are sure to inspire you to get creative in the kitchen and stock your pantry with tasty, nutritious foods that will last for years to come.
Freeze Dried Strawberry Yogurt Bites
These bite-sized treats combine the sweetness of strawberries with the creaminess of yogurt, all wrapped up in a convenient freeze-dried package. Perfect for snacking on-the-go or adding to your favorite trail mix.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries (see note)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the yogurt, honey, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth.
2. Fold in the freeze-dried strawberries until well combined.
3. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or silicone mat.
4. Freeze for at least 30 minutes to set.
5. Once frozen, transfer the yogurt bites to an airtight container and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Cooking Time: None required!
Freeze Dried Beef Jerky
Take your beef jerky game to the next level with this easy recipe that yields tender, flavorful strips of freeze-dried goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef (top round or rump), sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to its lowest temperature setting (usually around 150°F).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add sliced beef to the marinade, making sure each piece is coated evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone mat. Remove beef from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Arrange strips on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Place the baking sheet in the oven and dehydrate for 3-4 hours, or until the jerky reaches your desired level of dryness.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Freeze Dried Banana Chips
Elevate your snacking game with freeze-dried banana chips, bursting with sweet and tangy flavor.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe bananas
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat the freeze dryer to its recommended temperature (usually around -30°C or -22°F).
2. Slice the bananas into thin rounds.
3. In a bowl, mix together honey, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Add the sliced bananas to the mixture and toss until they’re evenly coated.
5. Load the banana chips onto the freeze dryer trays in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd.
6. Freeze-dry the banana chips for 8-10 hours or according to your freeze dryer’s recommended time.
Cooking Time: N/A (since it’s freeze-drying)
Enjoy your crunchy and delicious freeze-dried banana chips!
Freeze Dried Vegetable Soup Mix
This recipe is a convenient and nutritious way to enjoy a delicious vegetable soup without the hassle of cooking from scratch. With just a few simple steps, you can have a warm and comforting bowl of goodness in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 package freeze-dried vegetable soup mix
– 2 cups water or your preferred broth
– Optional: add your favorite protein sources (e.g., chicken, beef, tofu) or spices to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or microwave-safe bowl, combine the freeze-dried vegetable soup mix and water or broth.
2. Stir well to rehydrate the mixture.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Serve hot, garnished with your preferred toppings (e.g., chopped herbs, grated cheese).
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Freeze Dried Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
A warm and comforting breakfast or snack option that combines the natural sweetness of apples with the warmth of cinnamon, all wrapped up in a nutritious bowl of oatmeal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup freeze-dried apple dices
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup water or milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a pot, bring the water or milk to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the rolled oats and reduce heat to low. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and have a creamy consistency.
3. Stir in the freeze-dried apple dices, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Remove from heat and add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
5. Serve warm, topped with any desired toppings such as nuts, seeds, or a dollop of whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Freeze Dried Chicken Noodle Soup
This recipe brings back memories of a warm, comforting bowl of chicken noodle soup, now made possible with the convenience of freeze-drying. Enjoy a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup freeze-dried cooked chicken breast
– 1 cup freeze-dried noodles (such as egg noodles or rice noodles)
– 2 tablespoons freeze-dried vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon freeze-dried dried thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon freeze-dried black pepper
– 2 cups hot water
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the freeze-dried chicken breast, noodles, vegetable broth, thyme, and pepper.
2. Add in the hot water and stir until the mixture is fully rehydrated and the noodles are tender.
3. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for later use.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Freeze Dried Pineapple Chunks
Freeze-drying is a great way to preserve fresh pineapple chunks, retaining their natural sweetness and texture. This recipe yields a delicious snack that’s perfect for camping trips or as a healthy topping for oatmeal or yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat your freeze dryer to 135°F (57°C) and prepare the trays.
2. Place the pineapple chunks in single layers on the trays, making sure not to overcrowd them.
3. Sprinkle a small amount of lemon juice over each batch to prevent browning.
4. Load the trays into the freeze dryer and set the timer according to your model’s instructions (typically 24-48 hours).
5. Once the cycle is complete, remove the pineapple chunks from the trays and store them in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 24-48 hours
Tips:
– Use fresh pineapple for the best flavor.
– Adjust the lemon juice amount according to your taste preferences.
– Freeze-dried pineapple chunks can be stored for up to 6 months at room temperature or longer if refrigerated or frozen.
Freeze Dried Scrambled Eggs
Say goodbye to soggy scrambled eggs! This recipe uses freeze-drying technology to preserve the texture and flavor of your favorite breakfast dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups scrambled eggs (fresh or cooked)
– 1/4 cup freeze-dried egg whites
– 1 tablespoon butter or oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine frozen scrambled eggs and freeze-dried egg whites.
2. Add butter or oil and stir until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper as desired.
4. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! Your Freeze-Dried Scrambled Eggs are ready to eat straight from the package.
Freeze Dried Tomato Basil Pasta
This recipe combines the convenience of freeze-dried pasta with the bright flavors of tomato and basil for a delicious meal that’s ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup freeze-dried tomato basil pasta
– 2 cups water or chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium pot, bring the water or broth to a boil.
2. Add the freeze-dried pasta and stir to combine.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is rehydrated and tender.
4. Stir in the olive oil and Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Freeze Dried Blueberry Pancakes
Get ready to start your day with a sweet and fluffy treat that’s packed with nutritious blueberries. These freeze-dried pancakes are a game-changer for breakfast on-the-go or as a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1/2 cup freeze-dried blueberries
– Optional: maple syrup or honey for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Fold in freeze-dried blueberries.
6. Drop tablespoon-sized portions onto the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until pancakes are lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Freeze Dried Chili Con Carne
A hearty, flavorful chili con carne recipe that’s perfect for backpackers and outdoor enthusiasts. This freeze-dried meal is easy to prepare and can be enjoyed in the great outdoors or at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup freeze-dried ground beef
– 1/2 cup freeze-dried onion
– 1/2 cup freeze-dried bell pepper
– 1/4 cup freeze-dried tomato
– 1 tablespoon freeze-dried chili powder
– 1 teaspoon freeze-dried cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon freeze-dried paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Add 2 cups of boiling water to the ingredients in a pot or bowl.
2. Stir well to combine and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-10 minutes
Freeze Dried Mango Slices
Enjoy a burst of tropical flavor all year round with this easy recipe to freeze-dry mango slices. Perfect for snacking, adding to oatmeal or yogurt, or using as a topping for salads and desserts.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe mangos
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Freeze dryer machine
Instructions:
1. Wash and slice the mangos into thin pieces.
2. If desired, drizzle with honey and mix well to coat.
3. Place mango slices on a single layer on the freeze dryer trays.
4. Set the freeze dryer to its recommended setting for fruits (typically 135°F and 0.5 mTorr).
5. Freeze-dry the mango slices for approximately 24-48 hours, or until the desired level of dryness is reached.
6. Once dry, remove from freezer and store in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 24-48 hours (depending on freeze dryer settings)
Freeze Dried Cheese Powder
Elevate your snacks with this simple recipe that yields a deliciously cheesy powder perfect for adding flavor to popcorn, crackers, or even using as a seasoning. This freeze-dried cheese powder is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat your freeze dryer or dehydrator to 135°F (57°C).
2. In a blender, combine the grated cheese, whole milk, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth.
3. Pour the mixture into the preheated freeze dryer or dehydrator. Dehydrate for 12-14 hours or until the powder is dry and crumbly.
4. Once the powder is ready, use it immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: None needed! This recipe yields a shelf-stable powder that can be used straight away.
Freeze Dried Mushroom Risotto
Experience the rich flavors of mushroom risotto, now possible with the convenience of freeze-drying. This innovative recipe combines Arborio rice with freeze-dried mushrooms and Parmesan cheese for a creamy, comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1/4 cup freeze-dried mushroom duxelles (see note)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rehydrate the freeze-dried mushroom duxelles by adding 1 tablespoon of warm water.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add the warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously until absorbed before adding the next.
4. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in the rehydrated mushroom duxelles and butter.
5. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Freeze Dried Peanut Butter Cookies
These chewy cookies are packed with peanut butter flavor and a hint of sweetness, making them a perfect snack for any time. Freeze-drying preserves the texture and taste, allowing you to enjoy them anytime.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup peanut butter
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, and baking soda. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool completely before freeze-drying according to manufacturer’s instructions.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30 minutes (including baking and freeze-drying time)
Freeze Dried Carrot Ginger Soup
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the spicy warmth of ginger, all in a convenient and shelf-stable freeze-dried form. Perfect for camping trips or as a quick lunch at work.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup freeze-dried carrot puree
– 2 tablespoons freeze-dried grated ginger
– 4 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add 4 cups of boiling water to the freeze-dried ingredients in a pot or bowl.
2. Stir until the soup is reconstituted, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or a dollop of yogurt if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Freeze Dried Raspberry Ice Cream
This recipe combines the sweetness of raspberries with the creaminess of ice cream, then takes it to a whole new level by freeze-drying the mixture for an out-of-this-world texture. Perfect as a unique dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup pureed raspberries
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, sugar, and pureed raspberries. Heat over medium heat, whisking occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let cool to room temperature.
3. Pour the mixture into a freeze dryer or a shallow metal pan, spreading evenly.
4. Freeze-dry according to manufacturer’s instructions (typically 12-18 hours).
5. Once dry, break into chunks or crumble into fine powder.
Cooking Time: 12-18 hours (depending on freeze-drying method)
Tips: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Enjoy as is or mix with other ingredients, such as nuts or chocolate chips, for added texture and flavor.
Freeze Dried Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Transform regular mashed potatoes into a gourmet treat with the added depth of freeze-dried garlic. This unique recipe is perfect for adventurous foodies and camping enthusiasts.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1/2 cup freeze-dried garlic powder (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Boil the chopped potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash with a fork.
2. In a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the freeze-dried garlic powder and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
3. Add the softened butter mixture to the mashed potatoes along with the milk or heavy cream. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Boiling time: 15-20 minutes
– Total preparation time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover 18 delicious recipes that you can make using a freeze dryer for long-term storage. From sweet treats like Freeze Dried Strawberry Yogurt Bites and Freeze Dried Raspberry Ice Cream to savory dishes like Freeze Dried Chicken Noodle Soup and Freeze Dried Mushroom Risotto, these recipes are perfect for food enthusiasts who want to preserve their favorite meals. Whether you’re looking to stockpile ingredients for emergency situations or simply enjoy healthy snacks on-the-go, this collection of freeze dryer recipes has something for everyone.
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