Plant the new basil in a sunny area, water in, and fertilize with a nutrient-rich fish emulsionor seaweed solution two to three times during their active growing season. I havent tried it yet, but we are going to harvest our Thai Basil and Holy Basil crop from this year, and give it a try. As such, you should not plant it near rue, sage, and rosemary. We're not far from Denver Zoo and Saint Joseph Hospital. Add some garlic or tomato to the mix. You can start seeds indoors or sow directly outdoors once the risk of frost has passed in your region. This is What An Energy Saver Do On A Samsung Refrigerator! Best for: Thai noodles, spicy chicken, pork and seafood dishes, curries Substitution Ratio: 1 handful Thai basil = 1 handful holy basil (or holy basil and sweet basil) Holy basil is a member of the basil family well-known in Thai, Indonesian, and Malaysian cuisine and in Indian culture (where it is referred to as tulsi and used for its medicinal and religious purposes). Next, rub the seed heads between your hands over a large bowl. Our sister site, Foodal, has a fantastic recipe for shrimp pad Thai. Meet Sherri, a girl from NC who fell head over heels in lovewith Thai food, a Thai man and Thai cooking. She was raised in the Utah desert, and made her way to the rainforests of the Pacific Northwest with her husband and two dogs in 2018. You can eat them both cooked and fresh, but if you decide to cook them, add them at the last minute so that the leaves are gently wilted and not overly cooked. Go buy five grams (or 25 grams!) To boost the nutrition of these dishes, opt for brown rice, which has more fiber and nutrients than white rice, if its an option. Personally, I prefer freezing, but you can also dry the leaves. Shrubby herbs like rosemary and thyme have multiple uses, and also add to the structure and character of your garden. Sweet basils are the common green plant that most Westerners recognize, and that youll often find available as a live plant in chain grocery stores. Imagine a well-wrung-out sponge. Thai Basil is also more flavorful than regular basil. I like to moisten the soil ahead of planting basil seeds so you can just spray a little water on top and not wash away the seeds when you first water the plant. On the other hand, you should instead plant basil with the following plants. wild basil: Clinopodium vulgare (Lamiales: Lamiaceae): Invasive Plant Atlas of the United States Jump to: Images | Distribution Maps | Sources Taxonomic Rank: Magnoliopsida: Lamiales: Lamiaceae Selected Images from Invasive.org View All Images at Invasive.org Flower (s); wild basil - Clinopodium vulgare Rob Routledge, Sault College, Bugwood.org Companion plants are essential to basil in a variety of ways. Some thai basil benefits include lowering blood pressure, reducing blood sugar, reducing stress, reducing inflammation of the gut lining which is common in Crohn's disease patients (a type of inflammatory bowel disorder), and aiding bone mass development in children. Some call it sweet basil, Genovese basil, Italian basil, or sweet Italian basil. Thai basil is easily distinguished for its firm leaves, and of course, its color. Just add diced tomatoes, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt. Thai cuisine is known for incorporating regional herbs and spices, fresh vegetables, and lean proteins that add both flavor and nutrition to meals. long on purple stems with purple flowers. Is holy basil invasive? Thai basil is very flexible since you can grow it inside an indoor garden, on an outdoor garden, or inside containers. How to Plant and Grow Plantain, A Culinary and Medicinal Herb, How to Plant and Grow Plantain, A Culinary and Medicinal Herb, .slick-slider#wpsp-83657 {margin-left: 0px; }.slick-slider#wpsp-83657 .wp-show-posts-inner {margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; }#wpsp-83657.wpsp-card .wp-show-posts-single {margin-bottom: 2em; }.slick-slider#wpsp-83657 .wp-show-posts-single {margin-bottom: 0px; }#wpsp-83657 .wp-show-posts-inner {background-color: #ffffff; }#wpsp-83657.wp-show-posts .wp-show-posts-entry-title {font-size: .9em; }.wp-show-posts-columns#wpsp-83657 {margin-left: -2em; }.wp-show-posts-columns#wpsp-83657 .wp-show-posts-inner {margin: 0 0 2em 2em; } Other common ingredients in Thai dishes, such as tofu, seafood, and bean sprouts, also boast impressive nutritional profiles. Given its numerous unique qualities, one might wonder if it possesses the ability of invasion. Youd think it wouldnt be a big deal because you can find Thai basil even at some local grocery stores, but Thai Holy Basil (aka Holy Basil) is different from the Thai basil you might be lucky to find at your neighborhood store. Seeds should be planted about a quarter of an inch deep and 12 inches apart, depending on which hybrid you are growing. Where did Holy Basil get its name? Some people say its so intense that it almost has a numbing effect to your tongue like a Sichuan pepper. If you grow it inside, just make sure the container holds about a gallon and put the plant where it will receive six hours of sunlight. GE Washer Not Dispensing Fabric Softener! of the stuff at Arbico Organics and thank me later. The next day, add another hour, and another on the next day, and so on. Ready to go in less than 20 minutes, it makes a simple weeknight dinner or prep-ahead lunch. Thai basil is wonderful eaten raw, slivered, and added to salads, both your plain old cucumber-tomato salad or something meaty like northern Thai larb. The plant reaches 18 inches tall and a foot wide when mature. You can wipe tools with a 1:10 bleach to water solution and soak containers in the solution for 30 minutes. Growing Thai basil tends to be more compact than other types of basil, so harvest at the top of a group of leaves; otherwise, the stem will rot. Thai basil can be repeatedly harvested by taking a few leaves at a time and should be harvested periodically to encourage regrowth.[14]. Thai Basil Chicken Stir Fry Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 30 minutes Servings: 4 Thai Basil Chicken Stir FryFry. Basil is the most common variety of basil you see in markets and stores. There's a wealth of choice for anyone considering a herb garden. To choose a healthy Thai meal, opt for a dish thats loaded with plant foods, contains a protein source, and features a variety of herbs and spices. The stems are a vibrant burgundy. However, this is true only if you avoid temperatures below 50F (10C). Pick out any stems or leaves and then blow gently to remove the rest of the chaff. thyrsiflora is sometimes confused with the cinnamon cultivar (O. basilicum Cinnamon), also known as Mexican spice basil. If you want to grow your own Thai basil and Thai holy basil, its great in full sun or part shade. Delicious! Healthy Thai dishes are loaded with veggies and other plant foods, seasoned with herbs and spices, and served with seafood, tofu, and other lean proteins. Lauren Rothman is a food and drinks writer raised in Brooklyn and based in Oaxaca, Mexico. how to grow thai basilat home.Basil growing time lapseBasil growinghow to grow basil#seeds#timelapse #shorts #shortsvideo #shotsvideo #shots#germinatingseeds. Dig a hole a few inches wide and deeper than the container that your herb is growing in. Holy basil, a different species from Thai and sweet thats commonly known as tulsi, has a hint of clove and citrus flavor thats lacking in the other two. Eating meals that largely comprise non-starchy veggies and also contain protein and fat can help you maintain stable blood sugar levels throughout the day. Basil is sweet and peppery, while Thai basil is sweet and spicy. Delivery & Pickup Options - 305 reviews of Thai Basil "Actually, more like 3.54576745 stars. Thai basil, on the other hand, is mostly found in the International aisles or Asian markets. Moxies restaurant is a contemporary casual restaurant offering a globally inspired menu and hand crafted cocktails in a vibrant and interactive atmosphere. All You Need to Know, 9 Evidence-Based Health Benefits of Almonds. Their presence can repel insects, pests, and even some diseases. About Press Copyright Contact us Creators Advertise Press Copyright Contact us Creators Advertise The main factor is taste. The combination is excellent for repelling pests and maintaining dense ground cover. Here are some nutritious options. Here is more about what we do. Secondly, they handle hot temperatures differently. [8] Its leaves are richly green and ovate, but otherwise come in a wide variety of sizes and shapes depending on cultivar. Thai Basil Restaurant - Cornwall Phone : (604) 677-6767 2184 Cornwall Ave. Vancouver, BC. On top of being bolder in flavor all around, the leaves and flowers also have a hint of licorice or anise flavor that sweet and holy basil varieties lack. Like other basils, Thai basil is a heat-loving plant and is especially susceptible to frost damage. See our TOS for more details. Basil leaves are delicate, shiny, smooth, and round with green stems. If you want to give this plant a spot in your herb garden, seeds are available from Hazzards Seeds via Amazon. We have an entire guide on propagating this kitchen essential that I encourage you to read for the full run-down on planting seeds or cuttings. Thai basil, or horapha ( Thai: ), is widely used throughout Southeast Asia and plays a prominent role in Vietnamese cuisine. I share this because its incredible to note the subtle differences that exist between different types of basil. If you want to keep your harvest around longer, you have a few options. Thai Basil is on the left and Holy Basil is on the right. Thai basil has small, narrow leaves, purple stems, and pink-purple flowers. Plants purchased from a nursery are usually good to go straight into the garden so long as the last expected frost date has passed. Thai basil is a type of basil plant which grows to about 12 to 18 inches in height and has pink and purple flowers that grow in the late summer. Kristine Lofgren is a writer, photographer, reader, and gardening lover from outside Portland, Oregon. Make sure they have plenty of direct light. Thai basil is a perennial herb. Any more questions about Thai Basil or Holy Basil? V6K 2H5. Thai Basil 3682 N Nostrand Ave Ste B (718) 891-8889 $$$ 2619 ratings 90 Food was good 96 Delivery was on time 96 Order was correct See if this restaurant delivers to you. Mix all the ingredients for the sauce in a small bowl and set aside. Heres why the world of science recommends you turn up the heat on your. Before those luscious-smelling bouquets of bright green leaves become more scarce at the market, I'm throwing them by the handful into almost everything I make: tomato salads simply adorned with olive oil and salt; hearty vegetable stews bright with both sweet and spicy peppers; and, of course, pesto, pesto and more pesto, which I stash by the quart container in my freezer. All rights reserved. Trim the flowers before harvesting. Bisa buat makan siang atau malam . Used as a condiment, a plate of raw Thai basil leaves is often served as an accompaniment to many Vietnamese dishes, such as ph (Southern style), bn b Hu, or bnh xo, so that each person can season to taste with the anise-flavored leaves. Coconut milk tastes great and is very good for your health. To do this, you simply use any of the following methods. How to Make Thai Basil Chicken. Get fresh recipes, cooking tips, deal alerts, and more! We also serve Ramen and Pho. Pour the sauce into the chicken mixture, stir together and cook for one more minute. Since it is an annual and not a perennial plant, there is no residual root to cause reemergence. Fennel does not pair well with other vegetable garden plants. The almond is a popular tree nut that is loaded with important nutrients. Summary Certain Thai dishes are high in refined carbs and may contain. This group includes the ever-so-popular Genovese type, along with Lettuce Leaf and Opal cultivars. This, As one of the five basic tastes, umami refers to the taste of glutamate, inosinate, or guanylate. Dining Room Now Open at All Locations. But did you know that basil comes from the family of mints called Lamiaceae? Try Thai basil in simmered dishes like Taiwanese braised eggplant and green curry as well as high-heat stir-fries such as Thai basil chicken and Thai tofu (traditionally made with holy basil, but great with Thai basil, too). You can use them for indoor pot planting to keep growing basil all year round. Learn more about how to freeze fresh herbs in our guide. However, basil does not grow well with every plant. Before we grew Holy Basil, I would substitute it with Thai Basil in Thai recipes, and it worked. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); document.getElementById( "ak_js_2" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); .slick-slider#wpsp-83656 {margin-left: 0px; }.slick-slider#wpsp-83656 .wp-show-posts-inner {margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; }#wpsp-83656.wpsp-card .wp-show-posts-single {margin-bottom: 2em; }.slick-slider#wpsp-83656 .wp-show-posts-single {margin-bottom: 0px; }#wpsp-83656 .wp-show-posts-inner {background-color: #ffffff; }#wpsp-83656.wp-show-posts .wp-show-posts-entry-title {font-size: .9em; }.wp-show-posts-columns#wpsp-83656 {margin-left: -2em; }.wp-show-posts-columns#wpsp-83656 .wp-show-posts-inner {margin: 0 0 2em 2em; } 2023 Gardening Know How, Future US LLC, Full 7th Floor, 130 West 42nd Street, New York, NY 10036. Seeds are usually cheap and can be found just about anywhere. Can You Substitute Basil for Thai Basil in Recipes? Thai food is commonly enjoyed in the United States, but you may wonder whether this cuisine is healthy. Thai Culture: Red Curry - See 60 traveler reviews, 10 candid photos, and great deals for Oshawa, Canada, at Tripadvisor. Thai basil may sometimes be called chi neang vorng, anise basil or licorice basil, in reference to its anise- and licorice-like scent and taste, but it is different from the Western strains bearing these same names. Thai Basil has a distinct licorice or some say aniseed flavor. Thai Basil Substitute. Some regard it as sacred and use it for religious purposes. [12][15] The flowers should be pinched to prevent the leaves from becoming bitter. Siam Queen is an extremely popular cultivar that grows to 20 inches tall and 10 inches wide. Fried rice and pad Thai, in particular, often contain large amounts of refined carbs from white rice or noodles. [13], Thai basil is a tender perennial[14] but is typically grown as an annual. We were meandering around, enjoying the warm summer mountain air as our four kids slurped melting watermelon popsicles from a nearby stand, when all of the sudden, my Thai Hubby said, Look! This article reviews galangal root's benefits and safety, as well as how it, Spicy food isnt just exciting it's also in your health's best interest. We serve authentic Thai cuisine here at Thai Basil in Denver, Colorado. Widely used throughout Southeast Asia, its flavor, described as anise- and licorice-like and slightly spicy, is more stable under high or extended cooking temperatures than that of sweet basil. As with the other two types, the flowers, stems, seeds, and leaves are all edible. Because the basil has a naturally annual life cycle, it will flower and produce seeds before it dies. Careful, though; otherwise, you will end up weeding out your favorite plants. (480) 704-6013. The majority of gardeners tend to grow these herbs as an annual, but you can grow them as perennials in USDA Hardiness Zones 10 and 11. There are plenty more details on nailing this propagation method available in the guide mentioned above, so be sure to check it out! This herb needs well-draining, rich soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. Just substitute the cilantro with Thai basil. Stir fry the chicken over high heat. Yellowfin tuna crudo ($21) with chili vinaigrette, cucumber, and peanuts carried the scent of Thai cookery, while a beef tartare ($17) with smoked oyster and buckwheat wrapped in shiso leaf (a . Once hot, add the oil and the aromatics - in this case, the shallots, chilies, and garlic. Are you just as confused as Ive been about whats the difference between Thai Basil and Holy Basil? But the pungent bite of licorice in the larb gai we had for dinner made me feel like fireworks were going off in my brain. Now that youre armed with the knowledge to keep this herb happy in your home, you might want to check out some of our other guides to growing basil next: Photos by Kristine Lofgren Ask the Experts, LLC. If you grow it inside, just make sure the container holds about a gallon and put the plant where it will receive six hours of sunlight. Stir often to prevent burning. Here are 16 foods packed with umami flavor and, A traditional Japanese diet is typically rich in nutrients and believed to provide an array of health benefits. If it feels dry, bust that watering can or hose out. Next is to pile up the removed plant, after which it will rot or dry up. Curries, stir-fries, and soups are made with a variety of vegetables, include a protein source like tofu, lean meat, or seafood, and contain coconut milk, peanut sauces, or other fat. These veggies are loaded with fiber, vitamins, minerals, and a variety of compounds that contribute to good digestion and overall health (24). You can also use fino verde basil, but its a bit gingery besides being sweet. Place the leaves on a towel and let them dry completely. How to Identify and Treat 9 Common Rose Diseases, How to Identify and Treat 9 Common Rose Diseases. Peppers and basil also pair well. This is particularly useful if you have sandy or clay earth. Thai basil may also be used as an aromatherapy treatment by bruising the leaves and inhaling their aroma. You should use regular basil on Italian dishes such as pizza and pasta. So I distinctly remember the day when I ate at the home of a friend from Thailand, and tasted my first nibble of Thai basil. Thai basil leaves have a distinctive flavor with bold notes of licorice and spice. Try to take about four inches of stem and cut just below a leaf node. 2005-2023 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. Homeguideinfo.com is a participant with Amazon and other Affiliate networks. 2. Shock Them with an Ice Bath Remove any bruised or blackened leaves, and then submerge the wilted herbs, stems and all, into the ice bath. Unlike sweet basil, the Thai basil smell won't spread after being crushed or rubbed. While several Thai dishes include a good balance of nutrients and health-promoting ingredients, there are some downsides to Thai cuisine. Harvest in the morning by pinching off the leaves or trimming with a pair of scissors. Harvest the leaves in the morning when their essential oils are at their peak and the flavor of the growing Thai basil will be at a premium. Basil also elevates meat burgers and makes hearty vegetable stews. The best way to figure out if the soil is moist enough is the old-fashioned way: stick your finger in the soil. Give plants full sun, at least six hours per day. Instead, youll get that sweeter taste and the aroma of cloves. To freeze, remove the leaves from the stem and quickly blanch them in boiling water for a second. Rub the heads between your hands over a bowl to separate the seeds from the rest of the plant. However, temperatures of 50F and below affects the plant. Rosemary and Thai basil work well planted together as they enjoy similar well-drained soil, water, and fertilization. Edible fragrant flowering herbs that you can enjoy in your kitchen Ready for Shipment You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site. However, some Westernized Thai dishes are deep fried, served in large portions, or contain excessive amounts of added sugar and salt. All you need is a stem with a few leaves on it. Or, if you want to harvest the seeds, allow the flowers to form and go to seed. Thats what the soil should feel like. Basil is native to tropical Asia and belongs to the mint family. If you are a Thai curry fan, you will adore sprinkling Thai Basil as a finishing touch of flavor and color onto your Thai Green Curry, Thai Massaman Curry, Thai Chu Chee Curry, or any Thai curry you adore. Once youve done this for a week, its time to plant. They also have hairy purple stems and jagged edges. It has that licorice taste. Vancouver, BC. That said, is Basil invasive? The basil family of herbs is one of the oldest and most commonly used herbs in the world. They lose their flavor shortly, and their taste changes. But, unfortunately, some herbs become invasive, crowd other plants, and even take over a garden. Immediately we both did a happy dance as our kids gazed at us and wondered out loud why we were dancing at the farmers market. If youre into herbs and spices, chances are youve already been buying and using the great basil in your cooking adventures. Bake in the oven on its lowest setting until the leaves are completely dry. Keep them in to infuse flavor. However, this requires going into the garden and doing some weeding. But Thai Basil can last 2 years or more. Most Vietnamese will say this smell reminds them of Pho - Vietnamese traditional noodle soup. If we look at how to plant Thai basil in the home garden, our first concern is obtaining the plants. Thai menus also include some less healthy options, like fried appetizers and drinks made with added sugars. The seeds will be covered in a gelatinous shell at this point. Cook until the meat is slightly browned. Comparison Between Thai Basil Vs Basil Thai Basil. As mentioned earlier, basil is an annual herb which means you have to replant it every season. Also, because of its short life and cannot withstand cold, the basil plant does not spread like its perennial counterparts. Thai basil can solve that problem. 1. Place and Pinch. Thai basil leaves are stronger and more narrow. Dont let it happen to you we have some excellent tips for getting rid of gastropods so that you can keep your harvest for yourself in our guide. At some point, sweet cultivars diverged from Thai, and the latter along with tulsi became more widely used in certain Asian cuisines, particularly in southeast Asian food, while the sweet kind became more common in Western recipes. If you buy from one of our links,we may earn a commission. The Truth About The Origin Of Of Sweet Basil And Thai Basil Dont grow it with plants that prefer dry conditions like bay, rosemary, and sage. Meanwhile, Asian basil is far more aromatic, less sweet, and packing a bit more peppery heat. Maintaining planted material through watering, mulching, weeding, and pruning. Planting native trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants, both independently and with volunteers. Basil can grow better beside specific plants or help other plants to grow better. All Ocimum species are thought to have emerged in India, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, or western China, though theyve been a part of human culture for so long that the history of cultivation isnt well-documented. Dont make fun of me, but I grew up in a house where fresh (not canned!) Arbico Organics has one-pound and five-pound boxes available if you need to pick some up. The history of basil goes all the way back to Ancient Greece where it was a symbol of mourning. As such, if you want to grow for more than one season, you need to pot the plant and grow it indoors, away from cold and frost. Cut the heads off and put them in a warm, dry, protected location to dry for a few days. WE hope this will only be temporary and apologize for the inconvenience. Once the oil is hot, add garlic and ginger and fry for a few seconds. Firstly, they differ in appearance. Thai basil has a particularly distinctive licorice aroma, while holy basil brings clove notes to the table. What is a good substitute for Thai Basil or Holy Basil? Looking for more ways to use your Thai basil? Also, the root system of basil is not very strong, and it can quickly die from minor disturbances. Pick up a pack of 200 seeds for your herb garden at Eden Brothers. Use a seaweed-based or fish-based fertilizer two to three times during the plant's growing season of spring and summer. You can whip up your own pesto to use in home-cooked pasta, sandwiches, and salads. To make this treat, rinse half a cup of seeds and cover them with water. The green leaves on Thai basil, however, are sturdier than the leaves on sweet basil, and the stems are purple. It's a versatile herb, though, and good to have on hand for a punchier caprese or ratatouille, but its true boon is the anise intensity it brings to East and Southeast Asian dishes from Thai coconut milk curry to Taiwanese three cup chicken. *Which is different from holy basil, a more medicinal-tasting herb also used in Thai cooking. Thai bail has a strong anise flavor profile, so substituting anise for Thai basil is a good option. Cook the aromatics - Heat a large wok or skillet over high heat. Like its other relatives, this type can be propagated by cuttings or seed. If you want to harvest the seeds from the plant, you can let it go to seed rather than pinching the flowers. Thai basil brings pungency to Taiwanese three cup chicken. It has a purple stem, purple flowers, and thin, dark green leaves. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Keep it watered, but not soggy, like you would a sweet basil plant. You may also see a pinkish fuzzy mold on the stems. Remember that Mycostop I mentioned above? A former professional chef, she develops recipes in addition to reporting on food. Basil - This family of heat-tolerant herbs includes varieties such as the common sweet basil as well as Genovese, purple, Thai, African blue, and ruffles. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Some of the dishes we serve include Green Curry, Sesame Scallops, Bangkok Chicken, and Drunken Noodles. We link to vendors to help you find relevant products. Sage and rue are not good companions for basil. Speaking of getting confused, dont conflate Thai with licorice (O. basilicum Licorice), also known as Persian basil. This article covers everything you. Although it can attract beneficial insects, it can also serve as an inhibitor to the growth of plants, stunting them or killing them ultimately. Store the leaves whole or crumbled in airtight containers in a cool, dark spot. Pinch back flowers to use any time they appear. You can also cut a stem from your or a friends existing plant. Trim right above a leaf node. These are the same peeps in Tempe and I'm sure Chandler, and now they're in Downtown Phoenix. Thai basil has the ability to take so many dishes, from curries to dessert, to the next level. You can use your basil-infused oil on noodle soups like Pho. We are excited for you to experience everything . You can use your basil-infused oil on noodle soups like Pho. Last summer, my Thai Hubby and I and our kids walked into a small stall at our local farmers market that was packed with any herb seedlings you could imagine that you could grow at home. Fried rice and pad Thais are often made with larger proportions of white rice and rice noodles, compared with other ingredients. Several of the most common Thai ingredients are nutritious on their own, but there are other healthy aspects of Thai food in general. The flower heads are large, compact, and a dark, deep red. Basil, like other plants, will grow better with companion plants. Due to global supply shortage, prices of certain items are subject to change. Sweet basil and holy basil are also good alternatives but do miss the anise note that the recipe is likely calling Thai . 1209 reviews of Thai Basil "Thai food was introduced to me only a few months ago and I've been enjoying it since. And also because it can not tolerate low temperatures. Thai basil is a type of basil with an anise or black licorice flavor that's native to Southeast Asia. I like to use Down to Earths All-Purpose mixture because it has never failed to make my herbs grow big and bushy. Thai basils are a group of cultivars that have a spicier flavor than sweet, with notes of anise or licorice. 2. There are lots of different ways to freeze any kind of basil, and this helpful website tested them out and concluded that just washing and drying the basil, putting them straight into freezer bags, taking out as much air as possible, and then freezing was the best method.