Freezing Okra

Instructions for freezing whole or cut pods.

Follow these step-by step instructions for freezing okra for later use in soups, gumbos, stews or other favorite dishes.

You can freeze okra in two forms, whole pods or cut.

Preparing whole pods of okra for freezing.

• Wash the pods thoroughly and cut off the stems being careful not to open seed cells.
• Blanch the okra in boiling water to stop the action of the enzymes.
• Put about a pound of washed okra in a wire basket, metal colander or cheesecloth bag and gently drop the okra in a gallon of boiling water.
• Cover the container and when the water returns to a boil, begin counting the time.
• Small pods should be blanched for about three minutes, large pods about four minutes.
• Remove the pods from the boiling water and drain them.
• Cool the okra quickly in ice water or cold running water.
• Drain off the cold water and either leave the pods whole or slice them.
• Put the okra in airtight, moisture-vapor-proof freezing bags or containers.
• Seal the bags and freeze the packages at zero degrees or colder.

Preparation for frying…

To prepare okra for frying, blanch for 3 minutes. Cool and drain. Slice crosswise and roll in flour or meal. Spread in a single layer on a cookie sheet. When frozen, remove from the tray and repackage.

For more information on freezing okra; contact your local county Extension office.