What is Blanching?
Blanching is a cooking process where vegetables are briefly boiled in water, then plunged into an ice bath to stop the cooking. This helps lock in color, texture, and flavor. Blanching also helps soften vegetables to prepare them for freezing or other preparations.
When blanching in an instant pot, the quick rise to pressure and steam environment leads to fast, even blanching. The instant pot can blanch vegetables in just 1-2 minutes under pressure. This makes it a convenient tool for blanching large batches of veggies.
Benefits of Blanching Zucchini
Here are some of the key benefits of blanching zucchini:
- Bright green color – Blanching preserves the vibrant green color of zucchini, which would otherwise start to fade during cooking.
- Crisp texture – The short blanch minimizes overcooking that can lead to mushy zucchini.
- Holds shape – Blanching makes zucchini pliable so it holds its shape better for stuffing, baking, etc.
- Loosens skin – The heat loosens the skin so it’s easy to remove after blanching.
- Preparation for freezing – Blanching stops the enzyme action that leads to loss of flavor/texture in frozen zucchini.
How to Blanch Zucchini in an Instant Pot
Blanching zucchini in an instant pot is simple and only takes a few minutes from start to finish. Here are step-by-step instructions:
Prep the zucchini
Start by washing and trimming both ends off the zucchini. Slice the zucchini into 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick rounds, sticks, or other shapes as desired.
Have ice water ready in a large bowl or container. This will be used for the ice bath after blanching.
Add water to instant pot
Pour 2 cups of water into the instant pot inner pot. The amount can be adjusted as needed to fully submerge the zucchini.
Load in zucchini
Place your cut zucchini into a steamer basket or colander that fits inside the instant pot. Lower it into the pot over top of the water.
For loose zucchini, place it directly in the inner pot and stir gently to prevent sticking after cooking.
Pressure cook
Secure the lid and set the pressure valve to sealing. Pressure cook on high pressure for 0 minutes (some models have a “steam” button to reach pressure faster).
Once pressurized, cook for just 1 minute. Then, quick release the pressure.
Plunge into ice bath
Carefully remove the zucchini and immediately plunge it into the prepared ice bath. Let cool for 2-3 minutes.
Drain and use
Drain off excess water and pack zucchini into freezer containers or use immediately in recipes.
Tips for Blanching Zucchini
Here are some handy tips to get perfect blanched zucchini every time:
- Cut pieces evenly – This ensures even cooking.
- Work in batches – Don’t overload the instant pot or ice bath.
- Use fresh zucchini – Older zucchini may become waterlogged and mushy.
- Dry zucchini well – Dab off excess water before freezing or sauteing.
- Season after blanching – Salt can draw out moisture, so season dishes after blanching.
- Use within 2 days – For best quality, use blanched zucchini within 2 days.
Common Uses for Blanching Zucchini
Blanching preps zucchini for all kinds of recipes. Here are some of the most popular uses:
- Freezer prep – Blanch and freeze zucchini to preserve for future use in soups, casseroles, breads, etc.
- Stuffing/rolling – Blanch zucchini boats or rolls to soften so they hold their shape.
- Casseroles – Add blanched zucchini to casseroles like lasagna or zucchini gratin.
- Salads – Toss blanched zucchini into pasta or grain salads.
- Sauteing/frying – Saute blanched zucchini for 5-10 minutes or bread/fry for delicious sides.
- Canning recipes – Blanch zucchini before pickling or making relishes.
Blanching Times for Zucchini
Zucchini blanching times can vary slightly based on the size and shape you cut them, and how packed they are in the instant pot. Here are general guidelines:
Zucchini Cut | Blanch Time in Instant Pot |
---|---|
1/4 inch slices or cubes | 1 minute |
1/2 inch slices | 1-2 minutes |
Whole small zucchini (spears) | 2 minutes |
Whole large zucchini (spears) | 3 minutes |
Check that zucchini pieces are just fork tender, but not fully soft. Adjust blanching time as needed.
How Long Does Blanched Zucchini Last?
Properly blanched and stored zucchini lasts:
- Refrigerator – 1 to 2 days
- Freezer – 8 to 12 months
For freezer storage, first cool blanched zucchini completely at room temperature. Then transfer to airtight freezer bags or containers, removing as much air as possible. Add date labels so you know when each batch was prepped.
Recipe Ideas Using Blanching Zucchini
Take advantage of easily blanched zucchini with these tasty recipes:
Zucchini Fritters
Grate and blanch zucchini before mixing into a fritter batter and pan frying into crispy, veggie-packed fritters.
Zucchini Lasagna
Layer blanched zucchini into your favorite lasagna recipe. The noodles and sauce soften the zucchini perfectly.
Zucchini Soup
Saute blanched zucchini with aromatics before blending into a creamy vegetable soup.
Zucchini Boats
Blanch zucchini halves before stuffing with savory fillings like rice, cheese, herbs, meat, etc. Bake until hot and melty.
Zucchini Chips
Toss thin slices of blanched zucchini in oil and breadcrumbs. Bake until crispy and golden brown.
Can You Freeze Blanch Zucchini?
Yes, blanched zucchini freezes wonderfully for later use. Follow these steps:
- Blanch zucchini pieces per recipe instructions.
- Shock in ice bath, then drain very well.
- Spread on baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 2 hours.
- Transfer frozen zucchini to airtight freezer bags or containers.
- Remove air and seal, then return to freezer.
- Use within 8-12 months for best quality.
Frozen blanched zucchini maintains its texture and flavor. It can go straight into recipes when needed.
Can You Refrigerate Blanch Zucchini?
You can refrigerate blanched zucchini for 1-2 days before using. Here’s how:
- Blanch per recipe instructions.
- Shock in ice bath, drain well and pat dry.
- Transfer to airtight container and refrigerate.
- Use within 1-2 days for maximum freshness.
Refrigerated blanched zucchini is great for quick weeknight sides, meal prep, or recipes needing pre-cooked zucchini.
Conclusion
Blanching zucchini in the instant pot takes just minutes but offers great benefits. The quick pressurized steam locks in texture, color, and flavor. Blanch batches of zucchini ahead of time for freezing, meal prep, casseroles, and more. Adjust cook times as needed for the size and shape of your zucchini. Follow proper storage and blanched zucchini will keep well refrigerated for a couple days or frozen for many months.