LORD, NO!!!!!!!
1. you can clip em fresh in the morning; they don't need to be frozen. That's what I do as I trim to PRESERVE the leaves.
2. 10 leaves/bud tips is good, just a little water, a pinch of oil, simmer them [we are still experimenting with times and temps.]
3. Yes, I drink any leftover liquid. But I try to simmer down the water so there isn't much liquid left when they're cooked. So small amount of water that will mostly evaporate.