Plus you get freezer burn protection long term or the spoilage protection for some time if just in the fridge.

I just blend them up with a bit of vinegar. and put them in jars.

Do they still turn "mushy" when they thaw if you vacuum seal, then freeze? I'd love to have fresh "crisp" peppers all winter long. Is there ANY way to keep them crisp? Or, if you don't vacuum seal, would a ziplock bag in a Tupperware container prevent freezer burn? My first year growing, and I'm about to have more ripe pods than I know what to do with. Thanks in advance.

Mike

Mike: unfortunately, once they get frozen, no more crisp== doesn't matter how you prepare them. You want some crispness, you'll have to pickle.

Kevin

Damn......that's what I was afraid of. Thanks Kevin. I just picked up a bunch of canning jars, and my dehydrator just came in the mail. I'm planning on making jellies/jams and powder, but pickled red Bhuts just don't sound too appetizing to me...

Mike

Yep, they will lose the crisp but I am a sauce maker, so no problem for me.

kclost, agreed. I've been using a Food Saver for years for some of my pepper harvest (amongst many other things), love it.

I also have a vacuum attachment for mason jars. I vac seal excess dried pods and powders in jars. Keeps them nice and fresh.

Bill