If you’ve made a big batch of chilli con carne or vegetarian chili in your slow cooker, you might be wondering if it’s possible to freeze the leftovers of this delicious dish for later. The good news is that chili freezes well! And, it’s a great way to have an easy meal on hand for those busy days. But what’s the best way to freeze this comfort food?
Firstly, What is Chili?
Chili, also known as chili con carne, is a spicy stew that typically contains ground beef, beans like kidney beans or black beans, chili peppers, tomatoes, and onions. It’s also made with a variety of seasonings and spices, such as cumin, chili powder, garlic, and paprika. The dish is popular in many regions of the world, including the United States, Mexico, and parts of South America. It is often served with rice or cornbread and can be garnished with toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped chili peppers and chopped cilantro. Chili can be made in a variety of ways, and different regions and cultures have their own variations and recipes. It can vary from very spicy to medium heat and even mild variations.
How long does chili last in the fridge?
The length of time that chili lasts in the fridge depends on several factors. Including the ingredients used, how it was cooked, and how it is stored. Generally speaking, homemade chili will last in the fridge for about 3-4 days if stored properly.
To extend the shelf life of chili in the fridge, it is important to store it in an airtight container or covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This prevents it from drying out or absorbing any other flavors in the fridge. Additionally, it is important to cool the chili down to room temperature before placing it in the fridge.
If you are unsure whether the chili is still safe to eat, it is best to use your senses to determine its freshness. If the chili smells off or has an unusual texture or appearance, it is best to discard it. Additionally, if the chili has been in the fridge for longer than 4 days, it is recommended to discard it to avoid the risk of foodborne illness.
Best Chili Recipe: Spicy Beef & Chorizo Chili
How to Freeze Chili: A Step-by-Step Guide
The first step is to let your homemade chili cool down to room temperature. This will prevent any harmful bacteria from growing during the freezing process. Once your chili is cool, you can store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bags. Freezer-safe bags are the best option for freezing chili because they take up less space in the freezer. It also allows you to store smaller portions. Here are different ways of freezing your chili for next time!
How to freeze Chili using Freezer Safe Bags
When using freezer bags, like ziploc bags, it’s important to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. You can do this by filling the bag with chili, sealing it almost all the way. Then squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing it completely. Alternatively, you can use a vacuum sealer to remove the air.
How to freeze Chili using a freezer-safe container
If you’re using an airtight container, make sure to leave some room at the top of the container for the chili to expand as it freezes. You can also freeze chili in a glass jar or Tupperware container. But, be aware that the freezing process may cause the container to break if you overfill.
No matter what type of chili you’re freezing – raw group beef chili, chili with ground turkey, vegetable chili, white chili, or your favorite recipe – the best practice is to label and date the container or bag. This will help you keep track of the shelf life. It will ensure that you use the best quality chili when you defrost it for your next freezer meals.
How to defrost Chili
To defrost frozen chili, you have a few different options. The easiest way and best method is to leave it in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, you can also use the defrost function on your microwave. If you don’t have a defrost setting, you can just reheat on a low-heat setting. Alternatively, you can place the frozen chili in a bowl of cold water or room-temperature water. If you only have a little time, run it under hot water until it’s defrosted.
One thing to keep in mind is that freezing can change the texture of the chili. If you want to maintain the texture, you can add some ice cubes to the chili before freezing. When you defrost it, the ice will melt and help maintain the texture.
Finally, if you’re planning to store chili in a thermos container or take it on the go, make sure it’s piping hot before pouring it into the container. This will help ensure that the cooked food stays at a safe temperature and prevents food poisoning.
Suggested Recipe: Vegetarian Black Bean Chili with Dark Chocolate
How to reheat Chili
When reheating frozen chili, it is recommended to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This can help to ensure that the chili is safe to eat and tastes as good as possible.
Why should you freeze Chili?
Chili is a popular dish for a reason! It’s a delicious meal that’s perfect for cold winter nights or as a quick meal prep option. Freezing chili is a great way to store a large batch of chili and have it on hand for next day meals. With the right freezing method, you can store your favorite chili recipe for a long time without sacrificing taste or texture. Serve it up with some tortilla chips and a dollop of sour cream for a great tasting chili that’s ready in no time!
Frequently Asked Questions about Freezing Chili
Does Chili taste good after being frozen?
Chili generally freezes well and can still taste good after being frozen, but the texture and flavor can sometimes be affected by the freezing and thawing process.
When chili is frozen, ice crystals can form and cause the ingredients to become slightly mushy when it is thawed. However, this can be minimized by using airtight containers or freezer bags and removing as much air as possible before freezing.
The flavor of chili can also change slightly after being frozen, with some of the spices and seasonings becoming less potent over time. To help preserve the flavor, it is best to freeze chili as soon as possible after it has been cooked and cooled down to room temperature.
Can You Freeze Chili With Beans And Meat?
Yes, you can freeze chili with beans and meat. Chili is often made with beans and ground meat, and both of these ingredients can be frozen without any issues. However, it is important to properly store and thaw the chili to ensure that it maintains its quality and safety.
What Container Is Best To Freeze Leftover Chili?
The best container to freeze chili is an airtight container that is specifically designed for freezing. These containers are made of durable, thick plastic or glass that can withstand the freezing temperatures without cracking or breaking.
Some popular types of containers that work well for freezing chili include:
- Freezer bags: These are made of heavy-duty plastic that is designed to resist tearing and punctures. They are also flexible, which makes them easy to stack in the freezer.
- Plastic containers: These are typically made of thick, sturdy plastic that can withstand the cold temperatures of the freezer. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes, so you can choose one that is the right size for your chili.
- Glass containers: These are a good option if you are looking for a container that is safe for both the freezer and the microwave. Glass containers are also easy to clean and can be reused many times.
Regardless of the type of container you choose, make sure that it is airtight and has a secure lid to prevent freezer burn and protect the chili from any freezer odors. Additionally, be sure to leave some space at the top of the container or bag to allow for expansion as the chili freezes.
Christopher is a food and lifestyle expert, recipe developer and the content creator behind May Eighty Five. With over 6 years of creating recipes for your favourite food brands, he also shares tips, tricks and how to’s that he has learnt over the years. Every week, he shares quick, simple and mostly healthy recipes along with some home and entertaining tips. You will find flavorful cocktails, delicious appetizers, tasty mains and some indulgent desserts.
