Saving left over curry
Sorry for the probably stupid question, but I have never been one to save leftover food so not sure how to go about it.I just made a chicken curry ,but much too much.I want to save the rest for tomorrow.Do I leave it to cool down first before putting it in the fridge?? To room temperature? Yes, leave it to cool before putting it in the fridge or freezer. data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7 Simple answer is Yes, don't put hot or warm food into a fridge.
Edit: beaten to it data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7 Thanks for the sppedy replies data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7 Another tip...Always make large batches of chili and freeze some.It actually improves with freezing data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7
Not sure about curry though. I wouldn't reheat chicken more than once though IMO.
R4z The flavours will mature overnight data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7 This can be a good thing but not always if it was a bit on the hot (chilli hot) side already.
Dave Stews, casseroles & ragu are also great for freezing.
You have to be careful with keeping & re-heating rice though. It doesn't keep very long at all without bacteria forming I have read somewhere. also if freezing, buy small containers so u only defrost what u needdata:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7 Room temperature isn't a necessity, you can let it cool a little then put it in, if you're able to comfortable hold the container without it feeling hot then it's fine to go in. Use a shallow container where possible.
If you leave it out too long then you are only increasing the chance of bacteria multiplying.