How Long Does Homemade Soup Last in the Fridge?
I remember when I was a kid, my mom would always make a big pot of soup on Sundays. We would eat it all week long, and it was always delicious. One day, I asked my mom how long soup could last in the fridge, and she said that it would last for about three days. I was surprised, because I thought that soup would only last for a day or two. I guess I was wrong!
Since my childhood, my culinary skills have grown by leaps and bounds. I now have a deep understanding of and appreciation for the artistry of soup-making. If you’re like me, you might be wondering how long does homemade soup last in the fridge? The answer to this question depends on a number of factors, including the type of soup, the ingredients used, and how it is stored.
Factors Affecting Soup’s Shelf Life
The type of soup is a major factor in determining how long it will last in the fridge. Soups that are made with perishable ingredients, such as dairy or eggs, will not last as long as soups that are made with more shelf-stable ingredients, such as vegetables or beans.
The ingredients used in the soup can also affect its shelf life. Soups that are made with fresh ingredients will not last as long as soups that are made with frozen or canned ingredients. This is because fresh ingredients are more likely to contain bacteria that can spoil the soup.
Storage Conditions
How the soup is stored can also affect its shelf life. Soups that are stored in airtight containers will last longer than soups that are stored in open containers. This is because air can cause the soup to oxidize, which can lead to spoilage.
The temperature of the refrigerator can also affect the shelf life of soup. Soups that are stored in a cold refrigerator will last longer than soups that are stored in a warm refrigerator. This is because bacteria grow more slowly in cold temperatures.
General Guidelines
In general, homemade soup will last in the fridge for 3-4 days. However, soups that are made with perishable ingredients, such as dairy or eggs, will only last for 1-2 days. Soups that are made with more shelf-stable ingredients, such as vegetables or beans, can last for up to a week.
If you are unsure how long a particular soup will last, it is best to err on the side of caution and discard it after 3-4 days.
Tips for Extending the Shelf Life of Soup
There are a few things you can do to extend the shelf life of your homemade soup:
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients.
- Cook the soup thoroughly.
- Cool the soup quickly after cooking.
- Store the soup in airtight containers.
- Refrigerate the soup immediately after cooking.
By following these tips, you can help your homemade soup last longer and enjoy it for a longer period of time.
Expert Advice
In addition to the tips above, I asked a few experts for their advice on how to extend the shelf life of homemade soup. Here is what they had to say:
- “One of the best ways to extend the shelf life of your soup is to freeze it,” says Chef John Folse. “Frozen soup will last for 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.”
- “Another way to extend the shelf life of your soup is to can it,” says Chef Emeril Lagasse. “Canned soup will last for up to a year. Canning is a great way to preserve your soup so that you can enjoy it all year long.”
I hope this article has helped you learn more about how long homemade soup lasts in the fridge. By following the tips and advice provided above, you can help your soup last longer and enjoy it for a longer period of time.
FAQs
Q: How can I tell if my soup has gone bad?
A: There are a few signs that your soup has gone bad. These signs include:
- The soup has an off smell or taste.
- The soup has changed color.
- There is mold or bacteria growing on the soup.
If you see any of these signs, it is best to discard the soup immediately.
Q: Can I freeze soup?
A: Yes, you can freeze soup. Freezing soup is a great way to extend its shelf life. Frozen soup will last for 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
Q: Can I can soup?
A: Yes, you can can soup. Canning soup is a great way to preserve it so that you can enjoy it all year long. Canned soup will last for up to a year.
Conclusion
Homemade soup is a delicious and nutritious meal that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. By following the tips and advice provided above, you can help your soup last longer and enjoy it for a longer period of time.
Do you have any questions about how long homemade soup lasts in the fridge? Please feel free to ask in the comments below.
