Freezing yeast: A simple way to maximize shelf life
Are you wondering what to do with unused yeast? Try this simple trick to keep it fresher for longer.
20 November 2024 10:02
Yeast is essential in many culinary recipes, from bread and pizza to fluffy cakes with streusel topping. In the kitchen, we often use fresh yeast, known for its intense aroma and ability to make dough rise perfectly. The problem begins when we only use part of a yeast block, and the rest lingers in the refrigerator, slowly losing its properties.
Many people don’t know how to store yeast to keep it as long as possible. Unfortunately, most unused yeast ends up as waste. How can we prolong the freshness of yeast? Use this method!
Can yeast be frozen?
Yeast has a unique structure — it has a membrane and cell wall that protect it even at low temperatures. Thanks to these characteristics, yeast can be successfully frozen without losing its properties. Yeast can last in the freezer for up to six months.
How to freeze yeast?
Freezing yeast is not complicated. The simplest method is to divide the block into smaller portions. Typically, for most baked goods, we need about 10 grams of yeast for 500 grams of flour, meaning a 100-gram block can easily be divided into ten parts. Each part should be packed separately, preferably in small plastic bags, and sealed tightly to avoid air exposure. Yeast prepared this way can be safely stored in the freezer.
Another method is freezing yeast combined with flour. Use 100 grams of yeast for every 250 grams of flour. Mix the yeast thoroughly with the flour, then divide into ten portions, place in bags, and freeze. The advantage of this method is that you can use the yeast straight from the freezer without waiting for it to thaw.
How to use frozen yeast?
Before use, take it out and let it warm to room temperature for about fifteen minutes. This will help the fermentation process start faster, allowing the yeast to fulfill its role in the recipe. If you’re using yeast mixed with flour, there’s no need to thaw it.
Remember that like any food product, yeast should not be refrozen after thawing. It's important to use the entire thawed portion at once.