We Asked 14 Chefs What Ingredients They Always Have In Their Freezer - Tasting Table

"For some of us, freezers are a place where frozen meals, ice creams, and leftovers take up space. However, for professional chefs, freezers are valuable territories where they can store ready-to-go ingredients and staples to help save prep time. While we typically associate chefs with using fresh ingredients, many of their most important ingredients live within their freezers. A well-stocked freezer is a necessity for any professional chef, as it helps expedite cooking times and keep ingredients usable for longer periods of time."

"To learn more about what chefs keep inside their freezer, we interviewed 14 chefs, asking them to break down some of their go-to items. From frozen vegetables to baked goods to pre-made broth, there were so many items we were surprised (and delighted) to learn that professional chefs keep on hand. After reading their picks, you just may be inspired to revive your own freezer with some of these suggested items."

Professional chefs rely on well-stocked freezers to store ready-to-go ingredients and staples that save prep time and extend ingredient usability. Frozen vegetables, pre-made broths, and baked goods enable faster service and reduced waste. Common freezer items include broccoli, corn, cauliflower, spinach banana muffins, broccoli cheese quinoa balls, meatballs, egg bites, sweet potato fries, and proteins that freeze well. Parenthood and household needs often influence freezer choices, prompting chefs to prepare family-friendly frozen items for quick meals. A strategic freezer inventory supports consistent quality, efficient kitchen workflow, and flexible meal planning for both professional and home cooks.

Read at Tasting Table