How to freeze foie gras?

Foie gras remains a product of choice during the end-of-year holidays. A 2018 survey conducted by LSA showed that 7 out of 10 French people say they enjoy foie gras for Christmas to treat themselves to a real festive break. Moreover, 75% of those questioned even consider it to be an essential part of the Christmas meal, ahead of smoked salmon and logs.

If in recent years with inflation and avian flu, the situation has become a little more complex, foie gras nonetheless remains popular with everyone. To enjoy it as long as possible, beyond the holidays, many people freeze it. But for this method to work and be safe for health, there are a few rules to follow. In this article, we explain how to freeze your foie gras to perfection.

Although, at first glance, some consumers do not see the point of freezing foie gras, this process nevertheless has many advantages. First of all, it allows it to be preserved longer. In fact, if it can be kept for around 3 weeks in the refrigerator and 2 to 3 days once opened, it is possible to keep it frozen for several months. But be careful not to overdo it. After a year, its quality may be altered.

Freezing also has the advantage of buying your foie gras at a better price. Indeed, during the holiday season, the price of this product can quickly take off, whereas by purchasing it in November, for example, you can take advantage of promotions and then freeze it.

You have decided to make your foie gras at home, freezing will allow you to anticipate its preparation before the holidays, so as not to be overwhelmed.

Finally, it avoids waste. If you have too much planned for the holidays, you can freeze it to enjoy later in the year.

Little reminder : Before freezing your foie gras, if you have just purchased it, make sure that this product has not already been frozen. To find out, just read the label carefully.

If your foie gras is not started but is still vacuum sealed, you can put it as is in your freezer for a maximum of 2 months. Namely, this method works equally well for whole or block foie gras but also for foie gras sold in individual slices.

If you have decided to make your own foie gras terrine, know that Chef Damien has shared his recipe on video with all his advice.

Once the recipe is finished, simply place the terrine on cling film and cover it to wrap it well. Then freeze it for up to 1 month. Don’t forget to let it cool before putting it in the freezer.

If you want to freeze your foie gras in slices, make sure to wrap each slice well with cling film before freezing. You can then keep them like this for 1 month.

It is possible to freeze your raw foie gras by wrapping it in cling film, keeping it for a maximum of 1 month. Please note, if your foie gras is not deveined, it is preferable to do so before freezing. Regarding seasoning, however, it is better to do it after freezing. Please note, however, that cooked or semi-cooked foie gras tolerates freezing better than raw foie gras which will tend to release more fat when cooked after defrosting.

To defrost, take out your foie gras 24 hours before consuming it and put it in the refrigerator. Leave it for around twenty minutes at room temperature before serving and enjoying it.