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By Karen Jennissen
Ice cube trays are a great way to preserve ingredients for later uses. Once cubes are frozen, pop them out and place in a freezer bag and label.
Here are some ways to make use of them:
WINE: You had a glass or two and there is some still left in the bottle, freeze it in cubes. Use to deglaze a pan or use to chill your next glass of wine.
STOCK: Do you have some leftover stock you either made or poured from the carton? Pour the remaining into an ice cube tray and freeze. These are great for flavoring other dishes, or deglazing a pan.
BACON FAT: Freeze the drippings next time you fry bacon. Warm a cube to whisk into salad dressing, or use to sautéed greens or fry up some potatoes.
GARLIC AND GINGER: Create a slurry from garlic or grated ginger by pureeing it with water and freezing. Use in stir-fries, mashed potatoes and soups.
COFFEE AND TEA: Make ice cubes from yesterday’s brew. Use in iced coffees; whiz in blender for coffee slushy. Use ice tea cubes in lemonade or add to cocktails.
HERBS: Don’t let these precious goodies go to waste; chop your leftover fresh herbs and pack them into the ice cube tray compartments. Fill with oil or butter. They make great flavor enhancers for future meals.
COOKED ONIONS: Make a double batch and freeze the extras. Use to enhance a baked potato, as a burger topping or make a quick toast or bagel spread.
BABY FOOD: Prepare fresh fruits and vegetables by cooking (if necessary) and pureeing. Place in ice cube trays and freeze. After frozen, place in freezer bags portion needed for your baby’s meal.
EGG WHITES: Do you have leftover egg whites from baking? Freeze them to use in omelets, macaroons, angel food cake or meringues.
ORGANIZE: Here’s a cheaper option than a fancy organizer. Use an ice cube tray to sort jewelry, sewing supplies, makeup, craft supplies, screws and nails or office supplies to name a few. Here’s a bonus – they are stackable.
ICE POPS: This is naturally delicious and easy to adapt flavors. Using 100 percent fruit juice and fresh fruit, place in ice cube tray, add a popsicle stick and freeze.
PORTION COOKIE DOUGH: When you make cookie dough, make some extra or only bake half of them. Place the rest of the dough into ice cube trays and freeze. Then you can just bake a few when you want a sweet treat. Great for when unexpected company stops over.
Karen Jennissen of Alexandria is a wife, mom and DIYer.
