Chard refers to the leafy stems of beets. Distinguishable from other varieties of chard, red chard has green leaves, but boasts bright red stems and veins. With an earthy flavor, red chard contains a surprising amount of vitamin K in addition to zinc, copper and calcium. Like most leafy greens, red chard won't keep long before it begins to wilt. Freezing the greens extends the shelf life until you are ready to use it.
Step 1
Fill a bowl with water and submerge the red chard into it. Swish the leaves around to loosen dirt.
Step 2
Empty the bowl of water after 1 to 2 minutes. The sand and dirt will have settled to the bottom. Replace the water with fresh water and continue to wash the leaves until there is no more dirt in the bottom of the bowl.
Step 3
Cut away the stems and discard any wilted leaves.
Step 4
Chop the red chard into small pieces with a knife and drop them into a pot of boiling water.
Step 5
Boil the red chard pieces for 2 minutes.
Step 6
Scoop the red chard out of the pot with a slotted spoon and drop the pieces into a bowl of ice water to chill for 2 more minutes.
Step 7
Drain the red chard into a colander.
Step 8
Pack the red chard into freezer bags and seal them up tightly.
Tips and Warnings
- Store red chard in the freezer for up to 1 year. Red chard leaves may also be frozen whole after cutting away the woody stems.
Things You'll Need
- Bowl
- Pot
- Ice cubes
- Freezer bags
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