How long does curry last in the fridge? It can last in the fridge for an average of 3-4 days just like every other perishable food. Chicken curry, for example, can survive for up to 4 days in a refrigerator
Originating in India, curry is a delicious dish. You can use all kinds of ingredients including meat, chicken, fish, and vegetables to make curry. Like most Subcontinental foods, it has a lot of spices. It can contain everything ranging from chili, coriander, tomatoes, onion, garlic, turmeric, etc.
Curry is a common dish in India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh but not in the United States or Europe. Therefore, you need to preserve the leftovers every time you make them. But – can you store curry in a refrigerator?
You may also ask questions like how long the will curry last in the fridge. Can it maintain its quality in the refrigerator? How to store curry? We are going to answer all these questions in this article.
How Long Does Curry Last in the Fridge?
Most types of curries such as chicken curry have a shelf life of 3-4 days if refrigerated. However, it also depends on some factors such as storage conditions.
Rare curries like coconut curry can only last for 2 days in the fridge, however. You should not eat it if it has been in a fridge longer than that. The shelf life of vegetable curry in the fridge is 3 days.
How Long Does Curry Last at Room Temperature?
You cannot keep eating chicken curry even if it is difficult to resist its aroma. When you are full, you have to pull your hands. As mentioned above, curry can last for 4 days in the fridge. But – how long will it last at room temperature?
It is not advisable to leave curry at room temperature for more than 2 hours just like most foods. You should eat the curry within this period otherwise bacteria will start proliferating. Bacteria do grow on the curry even if it is in the fridge. However, it decreases the speed of growth.
Still, you must try to consume the curry within 4 days. Bacteria will continue growing no matter if the curry is in the fridge. Therefore, it becomes increasingly dangerous to eat curry after 4 days.
How to Store Curry in the Fridge?
The curry or curry paste can only last for 4 days in the fridge. However, you can increase its life by storing it properly without freezing as explained below.
Store in Small Portions
Just like every other food, you must store curry in small portions. Similarly, use shallow and airtight containers to prevent air from reaching the curry. It is even better to use airtight zipper bags because they do an excellent job of keeping air out. They also keep the moisture in the fridge at bay, keeping your food fresh for longer.
Temperature
Curry is quite hot when you cook it. Allow it to attain room temperature before putting it in the fridge. Placing warm curry in the fridge provides a conducive environment for bacteria to grow. However, don’t leave curry at room temperature for more than 2 hours as well. It also increases the chances of bacteria growing rapidly.
Can You Freeze Curry?
Curry has a robust flavor and dense texture. Therefore, you can easily freeze it without any side effects. You can either freeze it in a frozen block or can. The choice of freezing method depends on how long you want to freeze curry and the time you took to make it.
You must use a can to freeze curry if you have limited freezing space. However, freezing curry in blocks is faster and easier, especially if you have a larger freezing space. In this case, using resealable bags is also advisable.
Remember curry can only last for 3 months in a freezer. Therefore, you must eat it within 90 days to enjoy the peak taste. Similarly, you must thaw your curry before cooking or eating. Eating from frozen is convenient and tempting but not recommended.
How to Tell if Curry is Bad?
There are many ways to tell if the curry has gone bad or not. You can keep curry powder in your pantry or a dark and cool place for up to 3 years. However, cooked curry does not have such a long shelf life.
The following are the telltale signs of bad curry.
Change in Appearance
The first thing you should notice about the bad curry is a change in appearance. It may look weird or dull or simply have lost its color. It is better to throw it away instead of using it.
Change in Texture
Spoiled curry also changes its texture quite a bit. For example, bad curry will likely be slimy. The best way to be certain is to rub some curry between your fingers. Discard it immediately if it forms a slim thread on your fingers.
Also, keep in mind that curry does not have any expiry date. People just stop eating it after a few days assuming it has gone bad. However, it is perfectly edible if it does not show the above signs. It will also help you save food and reduce food wastage.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does curry paste last in the fridge?
Unlike cooked curry with a shelf life of only 4 days, curry paste can last in the fridge for a month. The best way to store curry paste is to apply a layer of oil on a screw-top jar and put the paste in it.
Can you eat chicken curry after 4 days?
It is not advisable to eat chicken curry after 4 days. It can only maintain its top flavor and texture for this period. Eating it after 4 days increases the chances of consuming spoiled curry.
How long does homemade curry last?
You can keep homemade curry for 4 days in the fridge. However, it will keep losing its quality and taste and will no longer remain as delicious as fresh curry.
Final Thoughts
Curry is extremely delicious and you should eat it as much as possible. However, never leave it at room temperature for more than 2 hours, and use refrigerated curry within 3-4 days. Also, thaw and boil the curry after you take it out of the fridge before consuming it. Try to attain an internal temperature of 165° as it will kill all the germs and bacteria.