Last Updated on May 2, 2022 by Share My Kitchen
This guide will answer the question “how long does chili keep in the fridge?” with an in-depth look at the shelf life of chili in the refrigerator. We will also discuss how to tell when chili is bad and provide tips for increasing its shelf life.
How long does chili last in the fridge?
The shelf life of chili is approximately one week in the fridge without significant changes in its flavor or texture. But chili made with meat has a shorter life span, because it matches the shelf life of the meat product.
So, chili with meat can last for 3-4 days without spoiling. Therefore to ensure food safety, it is best to consume the chili within this time frame after reheating it in a microwave thoroughly.
Does chili go bad?
Chili’s shelf life and its ability to go bad depend on properly storing. It is best to keep the chili in containers or bags that are airtight within 2 hours of cooking so there is little to no microorganism growth.
How is chili made?
Chili is made with seasonings and meat, preferably beef, as its main ingredient. However, different types of meat can also be used. It is cooked using tomatoes, beans, chili powder, garlic, onions, jalapenos, cumin and cinnamon. But the choice of seasonings mostly depends on the area and the individual.
How can you tell if chili has gone bad?
Your senses of smell and sight can help you distinguish the difference between fresh chili and stale chili. A pungent smell will be present if the cooked chili has gone bad. Plus it is also a sign if you notice mold growth on the chili or a strange color. A slimy texture is also a sign that your chili has become stale. So you should pay attention to these details.
Keep in mind that although chili may smell great, that does not mean it is safe to eat. Some microorganisms can cause food-borne illnesses by not making a distinct difference in appearance or smell.
Although I don’t recommend that you taste chili with a bad smell, if you are brave enough (and silly enough) to try it, you will notice a difference in texture and mouthfeel. You will also notice an off-flavor.
Using Chili in The Kitchen
You can make thai chili vinegar and ‘chili con carne’, which means chili with meat in Spanish. This dish was originally created in Texas.
Chili, one of the most popular cold-weather dishes, is often cooked in huge quantities. This means that even if you’re feeding a large group of people, some of the chili will still end up in your fridge.
Now, we are here to help you understand the shelf life of chili stored in a refrigerator.
How to prolong the shelf life of chili
- You can increase the shelf-life of chili while maintaining its freshness and quality by refrigerating it quickly in airtight containers.
- Chili can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days if properly stored.
- Microorganisms grow quickly at temperatures between 40 and 140° F. Therefore, cooked chili should not be left at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
- You can increase the shelf-life of your cooked chili by properly storing it in the freezer in an enclosed container. Moreover, cooked chili will be safe for a prolonged time if it is frozen at 0°C.
- Chili should be stored in small, shallow containers to ensure that it cools quickly.
Conclusion
This guide answered the question “how long does chili keep in the refrigerator?” with an in-depth look at the shelf life of chili in the refrigerator. We also discussed how to tell when chili is bad and practical tips for increasing the shelf life as well.
