Category
Out of the Ordinary
Freezing guidance for ingredients that do not fit neatly into a single category, from gourmet imports to unusual pantry staples and specialty preserves.
Example foods
- Exotic Fruits
- Gourmet Ingredients
- Novelty Foods
- Specialty Imports
- Fermented Foods
Foods in Out of the Ordinary
Can You Freeze Cookie Dough?
Yes, cookie dough freezes remarkably well and actually benefits from it. Both homemade and store-bought varieties can be frozen for 2-3 months while maintaining quality. The freezer acts like a pause button, keeping your dough fresh until you're ready to bake those warm cookies whenever a craving strikes.
Can You Freeze Corn on the Cob?
Yes, corn on the cob freezes wonderfully and is one of the easiest vegetables to preserve. When properly blanched and stored at 0°F (-18°C), frozen corn maintains its sweetness, texture, and nutritional value for 8 to 12 months, making it a convenient year-round staple.
Can You Freeze Eggnog?
Yes - eggnog can be frozen if it's the commercial, pasteurized kind; the USDA's consumer chart lists "Eggnog, commercial" as freezer-safe for up to 6 months (0°F / −18°C). Homemade eggnog should not be frozen, and both types must be kept cold: 40°F / 4°C or below. Always check labels and use pasteurized eggs.
Can You Freeze Eggs?
Yes - you can freeze eggs for later, but never in their shells. Crack and lightly beat whole eggs, or freeze whites and yolks separately (treat yolks with a little salt or sugar). Freeze at 0°F / -18°C in airtight portions. Refrigerate shell eggs at 40°F / 4°C for 3–5 weeks.
Can You Freeze Falafel?
Yes, falafel freezes well either shaped and uncooked or fully cooked. For the crispest result, tray-freeze uncooked patties or balls, transfer them to an airtight bag, and cook them from frozen; cooked falafel is best used within about 3 months. Freeze sauces and salad separately, because wet accompaniments quickly soften the crust.
Can You Freeze Rum?
You can put rum in the freezer, but most standard 40% ABV rum will become very cold and syrupy rather than freeze solid in a normal home freezer. Lower-alcohol rum liqueurs and pre-mixed rum drinks contain more water and may turn slushy or freeze. Freezing is unnecessary for preservation, and a tightly closed bottle kept upright in a cool, dark cupboard is usually the better choice.
Can You Freeze Salad Dressing?
You can freeze some salad dressings, but most creamy, mayonnaise-based and emulsified dressings separate after thawing and are not worth freezing. A simple vinaigrette is usually better refrigerated because oil can cloud or firm when cold, then return to normal after warming and shaking. If you freeze a homemade dressing, use a small freezer-safe container, leave expansion space and expect to whisk or blend it after a refrigerator thaw.
Can You Freeze Sauerkraut?
Yes, you can freeze sauerkraut for 8-12 months, though freezing reduces probiotic content and can soften the texture. It's best stored in the refrigerator where it keeps for several months while maintaining beneficial bacteria. Freeze only if you have excess that won't be consumed in time.
Can You Freeze Sugar?
Dry granulated sugar can be kept in a freezer, but there is no practical benefit and moisture can make it hard and lumpy. Store white sugar in an airtight, moisture-proof container in a cool, dry, odour-free cupboard instead. Brown sugar also does better sealed at room temperature, where its natural moisture can be protected without condensation from freezing and thawing.
Can You Freeze Tofu?
Yes - tofu freezes safely and, for firm and extra-firm varieties, often improves for certain dishes because freezing gives it a chewier, spongier texture. Freeze water-packed tofu at 0°F / -18°C for best quality up to 5 months (USDA). In the UK, treat opened tofu like other chilled leftovers: keep ≤40°F / 4°C and use within a couple of days, or freeze for best quality within about 2 months.