100+ Foods That Can Be Freeze Dried ✅
Welcome to a curated list of the best foods to experiment with in your freeze dryer.
Whether you’re an avid food enthusiast, a DIY adventurer, or just someone intrigued by the innovative world of freeze-drying, this collection of freeze-dried food ideas presents a variety of ingredients that work really well with the freeze-drying process.
From vibrant freeze dried fruits to hearty vegetables, savory meats, and even baked goods, these selections promise to transform into delightful, lightweight, and shelf-stable treats.
Discover the endless possibilities of freeze-drying as you explore this comprehensive list of foods that are perfect candidates for your freeze-drying experiments.
First, if you are new to freeze drying, then you might want to check out our Freeze Drying Guide that has helpful tips about freeze drying and preserving food.
Top Foods That Can be Freeze Dried
1. Apples
2. Bananas
3. Strawberries
4. Blueberries
5. Raspberries
6. Pineapple
7. Mango
8. Grapes
9. Peaches
10. Pears
11. Cherries
12. Kiwi
13. Oranges
14. Cranberries
15. Watermelon
16. Plums
17. Figs
18. Blackberries
19. Apricots
20. Pineapple
21. Papaya
22. Nectarines
23. Guava
24. Passion fruit
25. Lychee
26. Melons
27. Grapefruit
28. Pomegranate seeds
29. Dragon fruit
30. Persimmons
31. Broccoli
32. Carrots
33. Peas
34. Corn
35. Green beans
36. Bell peppers
37. Tomatoes
38. Zucchini
39. Asparagus
40. Mushrooms
41. Spinach
42. Kale
43. Brussels sprouts
44. Cauliflower
45. Cabbage
46. Sweet potatoes
47. Potatoes
48. Onions
49. Garlic
50. Beets
51. Celery
52. Snap peas
53. Artichokes
54. Okra
55. Radishes
56. Cucumbers
57. Butternut squash
58. Pumpkin
59. Avocado
60. Basil
61. Parsley
62. Cilantro
63. Mint
64. Thyme
65. Rosemary
66. Oregano
67. Chives
68. Dill
69. Sage
70. Tarragon
71. Cinnamon sticks
72. Bay leaves
73. Chicken
74. Beef
75. Turkey
76. Pork
77. Lamb
78. Fish (various types)
79. Shrimp
80. Scallops
81. Crab
82. Hard Cheese
83. Soft Cottage Cheese
84. Milk (various types)
85. Sour Cream
86. Nut Milks
87. Yogurt
88. Breast Milk
89. Eggs
90. Rice
91. Quinoa
92. Oats
93. Barley
94. Wheat berries
95. Pasta
96. Couscous
97. Farro
98. Bulgur
99. Millet
100. Black beans
101. Kidney beans
102. Chickpeas
103. Lentils
104. Peas
105. Lima beans
106. Chocolate Bars
107. Marshmallows
108. Freeze-dried ice cream
109. Candy
110. Taffy
111. Gummy Bears
112. Pudding
113. Chicken, Beef & Vegetable Broth
114. Minestrone soup
115. Lentil soup
116. Split pea soup
117. Beef Stroganoff
118. Casseroles
119. Chicken Parmesan
120. Chili
121. Chow Mein
122. Enchiladas
123. Ham Fried Rice
124. Hash Browns
125. Lasagna
126. Macaroni & Cheese
127. Mashed Potatoes
128. Meat Loaf
129. Meatballs
130. Pasta Dinners
131. Pizza
132. Roast Turkey Dinner
133. Rice Dinners
134. Scrambled Egg Breakfasts
135. Stew
136. Chicken Soup
What foods cannot be freeze dried?
While many foods can be successfully freeze-dried, some items may not produce desirable results or may not be suitable for the freeze-drying process.
Typically, foods with elevated oil or fat content, such as nuts, peanut butter and butter, are not well-suited for freeze drying.
Similarly, honey and syrup may not yield optimal results when freeze dried independently, but incorporating them into recipes tends to produce more satisfactory outcomes.
Tips For Freeze Drying Food On This List
Prep Food in Uniform Sizes:
Ensure that the food items you plan to freeze dry are cut into uniform sizes. This helps in achieving consistent drying times and ensures that all pieces dry evenly.
Avoid Overloading the Freeze Dryer:
While it may be tempting to load up the freeze dryer with a large quantity of food, it’s crucial to avoid overloading. Overcrowding can lead to uneven drying, and some items may not dry properly.
Properly Seal and Store Freeze-Dried Food:
Once the freeze-drying process is complete, promptly remove the food, and seal it in airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags. Store the freeze-dried items in a cool, dark place to maintain their quality and extend their shelf life.
Understand Optimal Drying Times:
Different foods have varying optimal drying times. Familiarize yourself with the recommended drying times for different types of food to achieve the best results. This knowledge ensures that your food is thoroughly dried without over-processing.
Monitor the Freeze Dryer Throughout the Process:
Keep a close eye on the freeze-drying process. Monitor the progress, and be prepared to adjust settings or remove items if necessary. Regular monitoring allows you to make real-time adjustments and ensures a successful outcome.
Thank you for taking the time to explore this list of freeze-drying ideas and delicious meal ideas. We hope this compilation serves as a source of inspiration for your culinary adventures. Happy freeze-drying, and thanks for reading!
If there is a food that you have been freeze drying, leave a comment!
Are you ready to start your freeze drying journey for food prep? Here’s the best freeze dryer for beginners.
