How Long Does Fried Rice Last In The Fridge? Solved

Last Updated on September 11, 2024 by Shari Mason

Stir-fried rice is a popular dish that involves cooking rice in a wok or frying pan. It is often mixed with vegetables, eggs, and meats, and flavored with a combination of soy sauce, salt, and pepper.

But how long does fried rice last in the fridge? And what is the best way to store it? 

In this blog post, we will answer these questions and give tips on making your fried rice last longer.

How Long Will Fried Rice Last In The Refrigerator?

Most experts recommend eating fried rice within two to three days of cooking. After that, the dish’s quality deteriorates, and there is a risk of food poisoning. 

To extend the shelf life of fried rice, it can be stored in the freezer for up to six months. When reheating, cook the rice until it is steaming hot all the way through to kill any harmful bacteria.

Is It Safe To Eat Leftover Fried Rice?

Not really. When it comes to leftover food, some dishes are better left uneaten. Fried rice is one of them. While the dish may still look and smell delicious, reheating fried rice can make it unsafe to eat. 

The water content is reduced when rice is cooked, making the grains denser. When these dense grains are reheated, they don’t have enough moisture to steam properly, which can cause them to become hard and dry. 

Additionally, the high temperatures involved in frying can cause the formation of harmful compounds known as acrylamides. These compounds can increase your risk of cancer, so it’s best to err on the side of caution and avoid eating leftover fried rice.

How Long Can It Last At Room Temperature?

When it comes to food safety, there are a lot of myths and misconceptions out there. One common belief is that leftover fried rice can last indefinitely at room temperature. 

However, this is not the case. According to the USDA, cooked rice should be stored in the fridge and eaten within four days. Fried rice, in particular, is best eaten within two hours of being cooked. 

Fried rice contains eggs, which can quickly develop bacteria at room temperature. So, if you’re looking to enjoy your Fried rice for days to come, store it in the fridge. Otherwise, you may end up with a stomachache – or worse. Find out how long shrimp cocktail is good for in the fridge here.

How To Store Fried Rice

Fried rice is a beloved dish worldwide, and for a good reason. It’s simple to make, endlessly versatile, and can be easily customized to suit any taste. However, fried rice is also notoriously difficult to store. If not done properly, it can quickly become mushy and unpalatable. 

The key to storing fried rice is first to allow it to cool completely. Once cooled, transfer the rice to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. When ready to eat, reheat the rice in a pan or microwave. 

With these simple tips, you can enjoy delicious fried rice any time of day.

Read: How Long Can Cool Whip Last In The Fridge?

How To Know If It Has Gone Bad

Like all food, fried rice can go bad. So how can you tell if your leftovers have gone bad? There are a few signs to look for when determining if fried rice has gone bad. 

First, check the appearance of the rice. If it is discolored or has changed texture, it is likely spoiled. 

Secondly, smell the rice. If it smells sour or off, it is probably not safe to eat. 

Finally, taste the rice. Don’t eat if it tastes unpleasant or different from how it normally does.

If you’re unsure whether the fried rice is safe to eat, throw it out. It’s better to be safe than sorry about food poisoning [1]!

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FAQs

Can you eat fried rice that is five days old?

No. Eating fried rice over a few days old is generally not recommended, as it may not be as fresh or safe to eat. However, if it has been stored in a refrigerator and is still within the safe eating guidelines, then it should be fine to eat.

How do you reheat fried rice?

You can reheat fried rice in the microwave or on the stove. 

How long does it take to cook fried rice?

The key to perfect fried rice is to cook it low and slow. I recommend cooking it on medium-low heat for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Can you eat fried rice left out overnight?

Yes. You can eat fried rice left out overnight if it is stored in a covered container. 

Key Takeaways

Fried rice will last in the fridge for up to four days. Keep it sealed and covered, so it does not absorb any other flavors or smells from your refrigerator. 

If you’re reheating fried rice, do so over low heat and often stir, so it doesn’t burn.

Reference:

1. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/food-poisoning/symptoms-causes/syc-20356230