How To Freeze Fresh Beans From The Garden

What is the best option for storing beans?

If you have a vegetable garden, sometimes you can have so many beans you don’t know what to do with them all!  If you are new to growing your own food, the last thing you want to do is add canning to the list of things to learn. Freezing beans is the best option for storing beans for the winter.

If you don’t have a garden, don’t worry, I’ve got you covered too!  You can purchase “homegrown local beans” in your area.  Stop by a local farmers market or farm stand and grab a few baskets of green or yellow beans to freeze for the winter.  Freezing beans now will allow you to enjoy beans all winter long.

Can you freeze beans without blanching them?

People are most surprised when I tell them you DON’T have to blanch beans before you freeze them.  Blanching is not necessary. You can definitely skip that step. I have successfully frozen beans without blanching for several years.

Check out this video to see exactly how I prepare fresh beans to freeze.

What is the best way to freeze fresh beans?

First you need to wash the beans to be certain all the dirt, grass and bugs have been removed.

Next remove the ends or tips of the beans. This is a personal preference. I always remove a tiny portion of each end of the bean. You can skip this step if you wish.

Once I trim the ends of the beans, I place them on a towel to dry for approximately 20-30 minutes. You want to be certain most of the water has been removed prior to placing the beans in a freezer bag.

Next place the desired portion size of beans in a freezer bag. Layer the beans so the bag is as flat as possible. This takes up less space in the freezer. Before sealing the bag try and remove as much air as you can. This does not need to be perfect.  

Don’t forget to put the date on the bag.  That way you will use the older beans first in your freezer.  

Think of how handy those beans will be on those busy weeknights. No fuss! I place the beans in a steamer to cook and that’s it! It’s a quick vegetable to have on hand when you are rushing to get dinner on the table. Plus, beans are a great source of protein and fibre.

HELPFUL TIP

If you have a handful of beans but not enough for a portion, throw them in a freezer bag.  Once you have the right amount just add more beans to your bag.  I do this often when the beans are just starting to grow.  

Do beans freeze well?

Yes, beans do freeze well.  Beans will last up to 12 months in the freezer.  You can either steam them or add them to soups, stews or anything your little heart desires.  When my beans are ready the following year, my freezer is pretty empty so it’s perfect timing.

Let me know in the comments if you have ever tried freezing beans before. I would love to know if this method worked for you as well.

The cost of food has increased tremendously over the past year. If you have been searching for ways to reduce your grocery bill, make sure you check out this blog post ‘Groceries Are So Expensive! What Can I Do At Home?‘.

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