During the winter months, when snow blankets much of the country and fresh produce can feel limited, frozen vegetables are a reliable shortcut that Southern chefs turn to again and again.

Frozen veggies often get a bad rap, but Southern chefs know they can be a powerful tool in the kitchen. When used correctly, these vegetables can offer consistency, peak-season flavor, and serious time savings. From peas frozen at their sweetest to onions that skip hours of prep, these are the frozen vegetables Southern chefs actually rely on—and how to use them like a pro.

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