How should I store chilli for freezing and later defrosting?
I usually make too much chilli so I want to freeze it and defrost it later to eat. Right now I am just using unbranded plastic containers to hold the chilli when it's frozen. I'm assuming it's unsafe to microwave these as they might melt, so I'll take out the frozen chilli and microwave it in a bowl. However is there a better way than this? What containers are best for freezing food in, and can any just be put in the microwave safely when it's time to defrost?
Best Answer
For meat/veg in sauce recipes I anyways freeze in boxes, and often defrost in the microwave. I tend to buy boxes that are meant for microwave use but don't fuss about this (larger quantities work well in ice cream tubs).
If you know in advance that you're going to eat it, you can defrost in the fridge. If not, aim to defrost quite slowly in the microwave and transfer to something else (e.g. Pyrex) before it gets hot. A larger container is good because it gives you room to stir, and that's a good idea when defrosting. Even the best plastic microwave containers can get very stained with hot oily tomatoes, and with others you might worry about leaching
Pictures about "How should I store chilli for freezing and later defrosting?"
Quick Answer about "How should I store chilli for freezing and later defrosting?"
How long can you refrigerate chili before freezing?
Properly stored, cooked chili will last for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator.Can you freeze chili and eat it later?
You can safely freeze leftover chili by scooping it into small portion freezer containers and placing them immediately into the freezer afterward. You should never freezer leftover chili if it is a day old.How do you defrost homemade chilli con carne?
You simply throw the frozen chilli con carne into the saucepan. Now all you have to do is heat it up slowly (at a low to medium level). So the delicious chili does not lose its typical aroma. If you want to let your chili thaw a little more gently, just put it in the fridge overnight.How To Freeze Peppers (The Right Way) - Pepper Geek
More answers regarding how should I store chilli for freezing and later defrosting?
Answer 2
To prevent freezer burn, fill the container as much as you can without making a mess. Cover the (hopefully cooled) chili with plastic cling wrap and try to remove as much air from the space between the cooled chili and the plastic. Place the lid that fits your container and trap the excess plastic wrap in the lid. Place in the freezer.
To thaw and heat, place the container in your sink and run cool water over it. when the chili begins to break up and isn't a solid chink of structural soup, heat it in a pan on to medium heat stirring occasionally.
Heat to your liking and enjoy.
Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.
Images: Matt Hardy, Mark Stebnicki, iSAW Company, EKATERINA BOLOVTSOVA