While it's relatively easy to freeze some cooked meat or vegetables to eat them later, it might be way harder with liquids like soups.
Soups are way harder to store, and you should eat them fresh – so what should you do?
Here are some tips on how to keep your delicious soups fresh for a long time.
Cool It Down
Let your soup cool a bit before storing. Hot soup in the fridge can make it warm and unsafe.
Use the Right Container
Pick a container that seals well. This prevents the soup from leaking or getting weird smells from the fridge.
Avoid Overfilling
Leave some space at the top of the container. Soup can expand when freezing, and leaving room helps prevent spills.
Label and Date
Put a label on the container with the date. This helps you know when you made it and when it's best to eat.
Freeze in Portions
If you made a big batch, freeze smaller portions. This way, you can thaw only what you need without wasting any.
Refrigerate Quickly
Don't let the soup sit out for too long. Get it into the fridge or freezer within two hours to keep bacteria away.
Thaw Safely
When you're ready to eat, thaw the soup in the fridge. It's safer than leaving it on the counter.
Reheat Carefully
When reheating, make sure it's piping hot. This kills any germs that might have snuck in.
Check for Spoilage
If the soup looks or smells strange, don't risk it. It's better to be safe than sorry.
Enjoy Within Limits
Soups are best when they're fresh. Try to finish them within a few days or weeks, depending on whether you're storing them in the fridge or freezer.
Previously, we talked about coffee brewing ideas.