How to Freeze Okra

Once you know How to Freeze Okra, you can have this veggie ready year-round. It’s quick and easy to either slice okra or flash freeze it whole, then transfer to a bag to save for future use. This simple process doesn’t require blanching, either!

Best Way to Freeze Okra

When okra is in season, you have to take full advantage of it. Because when it’s gone, it’s hard to get your hands on this rare vegetable—even here in the South.

While you can always buy the previously frozen bags to add into soups and stews, freezing your own fresh okra is sure to give you the most flavor for the most economical price.

The method you’ll find below is definitely the best, easiest, and quickest way, too!

Yup, no need to blanch okra pieces in boiling water before freezing. And it takes only a few simple tools and utensils you probably already have on hand. Skip the cooking process and flash freeze this healthy veggie for later use.

Freezing okra is also a great way to save it for later if you have a bunch growing in your garden at the same time! Then, when you’re ready to thaw it out, you can toss it into your next batch of gumbo or slice it up and make this Air Fryer Okra any time of year.

Ingredients

You only need one simple ingredient to make this recipe:

• Okra. That’s it! You only need fresh pods of okra to prep for freezing. Look for ripe okra pods on the shorter side that aren’t bruised or damaged. The freshest okra is best because it is a good source of vitamins. You’ll end up using this frozen okra in SO many recipes!

How to Freeze Okra

Below, you’ll find the basic steps for this freezing method for okra: 

Prep the Okra

The first step to freezing okra is to prepare it.

You want to pile all of the okra into a colander. Run it under cold water to remove any visible dirt and debris.

Thoroughly dry the vegetables with a dish or paper towel.

You can either freeze okra whole or in pieces. If you’re slicing it, cut it into 1-inch, bite-sized pieces.

Flash Freeze the Okra

The best way to freeze whole or cut okra is to first flash-freeze it.

Spread the whole or sliced okra on a baking or cookie sheet lined with parchment paper, and place in the freezer. For best results, let it freeze for at least 2 to 4 hours, or up to overnight.

Transfer to a Bag

After the okra is completely frozen, transfer it to a Ziploc bag. Try to get as much air out of the bag as possible.

Be sure to label the bag with the date!

Place the bag (or bags) in a freezer for 9 months to a year. 

How to freeze fresh okra?

To freeze okra, simply prep it by cleaning and slicing it, then flash freeze on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag and save for up to 9 months to a year.

Do you wash okra before freezing?

Yes, you definitely should clean okra before freezing. Sometimes, dirt and debris hang onto fresh veggies and need to be removed before using.

Do you have to blanch okra before freezing?

No, you don’t need to blanch okra before freezing! Many people do quickly cook okra before freezing, but this step isn’t necessary.

Expert Tips and Tricks

• Rinse well. Be sure to thoroughly wash the okra before freezing.
• You choose. You can freeze sliced or whole okra, it’s your choice!
• Spread them out. Flash freeze the okra in a single layer to prevent clumping.
• Set a timer. Create a reminder so you don’t leave the okra uncovered in the freezer for too long or they will get freezer-burned.
• Label it. Since okra can be frozen for up to a year, don’t forget to write the date on the bag.

More Frozen Food

It’s so simple to prep and freeze food when it’s in season! Try these fruit and veggie recipes next.

Learn how to freeze fruit, like Blueberries, Strawberries, and Peaches.

You can also freeze Zucchini, Asparagus, and Tomatoes to use in savory recipes year-round!