Extend the life of your ham and bean soup: follow these expert tips
What To Know
- Visible mold growth on the surface or in the soup is a sign that it’s unsafe to eat.
- Heat the soup in a microwave-safe container on high for 2-3 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat the soup in a covered casserole dish for 20-30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
Ham and bean soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cold winter day. But how long can you keep it in the fridge before it goes bad? The answer depends on a few factors, including how it was prepared and stored.
Factors Affecting Ham and Bean Soup Shelf Life
Preparation Method
- Cooked from scratch: Homemade ham and bean soup will typically last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
- Canned: Canned ham and bean soup can be stored unopened for up to 2 years. Once opened, it should be consumed within 3-4 days.
Storage Temperature
- Refrigerator: 32-40°F (0-4°C)
- Freezer: 0°F (-18°C) or below
How Long Can You Keep Ham and Bean Soup in the Fridge?
- Cooked from scratch: 3-4 days
- Canned, unopened: Up to 2 years
- Canned, opened: 3-4 days
Extending the Shelf Life of Ham and Bean Soup
- Cool quickly: Cool the soup to room temperature within 2 hours of cooking.
- Store in airtight containers: Use glass or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids.
- Freeze in individual portions: Freeze the soup in small containers for easy reheating.
- Thaw in the refrigerator: Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight or for several hours.
Signs of Spoilage
- Off odor: The soup should have a mild, pleasant aroma. Any sour, rancid, or off-putting smells indicate spoilage.
- Mold: Visible mold growth on the surface or in the soup is a sign that it’s unsafe to eat.
- Discoloration: The soup should retain its original color. Darkening or discoloration can indicate spoilage.
- Texture changes: The soup should have a smooth, creamy texture. If it becomes slimy or watery, it’s likely spoiled.
Reheating Ham and Bean Soup
- Microwave: Heat the soup in a microwave-safe container on high for 2-3 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
- Stovetop: Reheat the soup over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally.
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat the soup in a covered casserole dish for 20-30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
Safety Precautions
- Discard spoiled soup: Do not consume soup that shows signs of spoilage.
- Reheat thoroughly: Always reheat soup to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before consuming.
- Use clean utensils: Use clean spoons or ladles to serve the soup to avoid contamination.
Answers to Your Questions
1. Can I freeze ham and bean soup?
Yes, you can freeze ham and bean soup for up to 3 months.
2. How do I thaw frozen ham and bean soup?
Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight or for several hours before reheating.
3. Can I add additional ingredients to ham and bean soup?
Yes, you can add vegetables such as carrots, celery, or onions to the soup for extra flavor and nutrition.
4. What if I don’t have airtight containers?
You can wrap the cooled soup tightly in plastic wrap before storing it in the refrigerator.
5. How can I tell if canned ham and bean soup is spoiled?
Look for bulging or leaking cans, and discard any cans that show signs of damage.
