How Long Do Refried Beans Last in the Fridge? This question comes to mind when you have excess refried beans you cannot consume at once.
Numerous individuals strive to maintain a healthy lifestyle and shed excess weight. However, imagine being presented with a refried option for lunch.
Health-conscious individuals might strongly decline such an offer, but that does not mean others should not try it.
If you occasionally wonder about the shelf life of refried beans in the refrigerator, rest assured that you’re not alone. Many people are still determining the precise answer.
So, keep reading, as the answer to the question “How long do Refried Beans last in the fridge?” will be revealed in the succeeding paragraphs of the article.
How Long Do Refried Beans Last in the Fridge?
Once you store your store-bought refried beans, leave them open in the fridge at a temperature below 40 °F that can last for up to three or four days. It is crucial to seal them properly for optimal storage.
However, the refried beans you make at home can maintain their quality for up to four or five days. Still, it is important that they are well sealed and shelved at below 40 °F.
Please note that the numbers highlighted in this article are estimates of refried beans’ shell life.
What Are Refried Beans?
Refried beans are a classic cooked and mashed dish commonly associated with Tex-Mex and Mexican cuisine. However, it’s important to note that each culinary tradition has its distinct method of preparing this dish.
Refried beans are commonly served as a side dish in home-cooked dishes to complement a more substantial main course. In certain instances, they are also placed inside a tortilla to create a flavorful bean burrito.
In the US, pinto beans are frequently used to make refried beans. They are popular in Tex-Mex eateries, primarily offered as a side dish alongside main meals.
Corn tortilla chips have helped refried beans gain popularity as a dip and are a key component in recipes such as tostada, chimichangas, and pupusas. They are frequently used as an essential ingredient in 7-layer or nachos dip.
How Long Do Open Refried Beans Last Once Opened?
Once opened, refried beans that are homemade and purchased can typically remain fresh for three to four days.
It is important to note that refried beans should not be stored at room temperature after opening, as they are prone to spoilage.
Exposing refried beans to oxidation can indeed result in damage and promote the increase of aerobic microbes.
To ensure proper storage, the item should be placed in a clean and airtight container, followed by refrigeration. This method prevents the item from being exposed to air and effectively retards the growth of microorganisms.
Avoid positioning them near the fridge door; keep them inside where they can be properly refrigerated.
Following this approach, you can extend their quality for up to five days.
Also Read: Can You Freeze Half and Half? (Everything to Know)
How To Tell if Refried Beans Has Gone Bad
Spoiled refried beans, either store-bought or homemade, exhibit distinct signs of spoilage. They will emit an unusual odor, change flavor, display an unappealing appearance, and even show signs of mold growth.
If you possess an undented and closed can of refried beans, it will unlikely spoil shortly unless the expiry date has passed.
It is important to avoid consuming beans beyond their safe shelf life. Additionally, if the refried beans’ can is open or rusty, there is a possibility that the food could be better.
If you observe any mold growth on the beans, it is crucial not to eat them. Consumption of moldy beans can lead to a foodborne illness known as botulism. While botulism is uncommon, it is still a potential risk.
Botulism is an illness that results from a toxin caused by a bacterium called Clostridium botulinum. Its symptoms include fatigue, weakness, difficulty speaking, blurred vision, and other manifestations.
If you observe that the refried beans have become excessively dry or unusually liquidy compared to what is usual, it is advisable not to eat them.
Moreover, if the beans have a sour or moldy smell, it strongly indicates spoilage. Any item that emits a sour odor when it is not time to be sour is considered bad. Mold presence is also an undesirable sign.
If you unknowingly eat a small quantity of mold, it is unlikely to cause harm. Most molds are harmless in small amounts. However, it’s important to note that certain molds can lead to illnesses and, in extreme cases, even death.
Consumption of mold-contaminated food can indeed lead to gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhea and vomiting. These symptoms can result in dehydration.
If you do not want the beans to spoil quickly, you should ensure that your beans in well stored.
Best Way To Store Refried Beans
Both homemade and store-bought refried beans should be placed in airtight containers or sealed Ziploc bags.
Sealed cans can be safely kept in the pantry if the expiry date is exceeded.
It is crucial to store the can of beans away from heat sources or sunlight. Exposure to too much heat can lead to leaking, swelling, or even explosion.
When it comes to storing opened beans in the fridge, it is recommended to transfer them to an airtight container before refrigeration. Placing them in the back of the refrigerator helps to ensure better preservation.
If the items are located at the rear of the refrigerator, they will not be subject to continuous warm air exposure when you open the door at intervals.
This circumstance can lead to earlier spoilage of the beans compared to your initial expectations. You can expect the leftover beans to remain edible for approximately 3-4 days.
However, consider freezing them if you intend to use them much later.
How To Freeze Refried Beans
Without intending to sound patronizing, it’s worth noting that refried beans are prepared by mashing cooked beans. However, many recipes can be followed to achieve the desired texture and taste.
When dining at restaurants, it’s common to find refried beans accompanied by rice, guacamole, or melted cheese. This combination forms a delectable side that complements the main dish.
When making refried beans in the comfort of your own home, it is customary to utilize pinto beans. This contributes to the distinctive texture that is a hallmark of this meal.
Below is a list of methods that you can apply to help you freeze your refried beans conveniently:
- After making your refrigerator beans, you can take them out of the pan and drop them on the counter to allow for cooling. This cooling process might take a few hours.
- Split the refried beans into different containers. It is most desirable to freeze them in portions to ease defrosting.
- Airtight containers or zipper bags should be used depending on how much space you can provide for them in your freezer.
- Seal, label, and date the bags or containers before putting them in the fridge. The preparation date can also be written for future reference.
How to Reheat Refried Beans
The following are some of the conventional methods of reheating refried beans.
- Oven: Pour the refrigerator bean into a dish and bake for up to 15 or 20 minutes or until a golden hue is obvious and it melts. Ensure to heat the oven to 375 Fahrenheit before you start.
- Microwave: Microwave the refried beans for two to three minutes. Cover it with a moist paper towel and stir it for half the time.
- Stovetop: Cook the beans in a preheated skillet at a medium-high temperature for up to 10 or 15 minutes or until they begin to bubble. Remember to oil the skillet.
Frequently Asked Questions-How Long Do Refried Beans Last in the Fridge?
How Do You Know When Refried Beans Go Bad?
If you notice any unusual appearance, flavor, or odor, or if you spot any signs of mold, it is recommended to discard the refried beans.
Can You Eat Refried Beans After 5 Days?
Refried beans can maintain their quality for approximately four days when stored in the refrigerator. Beyond that, they may begin to experience a decline in nutritional content. If you prepare a large batch of refried beans, consuming them within the initial few days is advisable to ensure optimal freshness and nutritional benefits.
How Do You Store Leftover Refried Beans?
Refried beans can be refrigerated and stored for a duration of 3 to 4 days. After they have cooled down, transfer them into an airtight container, seal it tightly, and place it in the refrigerator. It is important to note that the refried beans should be consumed within a few days to ensure their quality.
Also Read: Can You Freeze Pulled Pork? (Everything to Know)
Conclusion -How Long Do Refried Beans Last in the Fridge?
This article has answered the question, “How long do Refried Beans last in the fridge?”
In conclusion, refried beans can last for up to four or five days. It is crucial to seal them properly for optimal storage.
Please note that the numbers highlighted in this article are estimates of refried beans’ shell life.
Maintaining proper storage is crucial for preserving the freshness of refried beans. It is recommended to store them in an airtight container and promptly refrigerate. Consider indicating the date of preparation or purchase.
Unusual colors, odors, textures, or molds indicate the beans have spoiled. At this point, you should dispose of them properly.
Bon Appétit!