In many cultures, rice is considered a basic food. Whether it’s white or brown, we all love it! But how long does cooked rice last in the fridge? Well, the answer is simple: 3-4 days.
The answer to how long does cook rice last in the fridge is not simple. It could be anywhere between three days a week, depending on how it was made and stored. When uncooked rice is stored in the fridge for a while or when it is exposed to room temperature, it can go terribly.
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How long does cooked rice last in the fridge?
The USDA estimates cooked rice lasts 3 to 4 days in the fridge. If you want to keep your leftovers for longer than a week, it’s best to freeze them instead of keeping them in the fridge. Reheated, frozen rice retains its flavor for up to six months. How rice is cooled and stored also affects its shelf life (or “spoon life,” if you’re into food puns).
The CDC recommends placing cooked rice in a shallow container and cooling it quickly by placing it into an ice bath or running cold water over it until it is cool. This will help preserve more nutrients in your meal while keeping it safe to eat longer than if you had let it sit out at room temperature after cooking it.
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How do you tell if rice is spoiled?
Any spoiled rice stored in the fridge should be easily identifiable. If you can’t, here are some additional hints:
- It’s probably spoiled if it has a foul odor.
- Check the color of your rice; if it has turned brown, it is probably spoiled.
- If the rice has become soft and mushy, it has probably gone bad.
How to store leftover rice in the fridge?
Storing your leftover rice in the fridge is a good idea, but you must ensure it’s stored properly.
Storage in an airtight container is ideal for keeping cooked rice edible for as long as possible. This will prevent other foods from contaminating or spoiling your rice and prevent moisture from getting into the container, which can cause mold growth.
Placing leftover rice in an airtight container will also help keep out any unwanted odors that may be present on your hands or utensils from when you were cooking with them earlier that day.
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