Vegetable Stew

A homemade vegetable stew that's been kept in the fridge can generally last up to 3-4 days. If there's meat in the stew, this might be a bit shorter, say 2-3 days. If properly stored and frozen immediately after cooling, frozen stew can last for up to 2-3 months. An unopened store-bought stew can typically last for up to a year past its printed date if stored at room temperature. Once opened, however, it should be refrigerated and consumed within 3-4 days.

If it's gone bad, your vegetable stew might develop a sour smell or taste, and you might also notice a slimy texture or the presence of mold. Any noticeable changes in color or texture could also be threat signals that the stew has spoiled. Always make sure to toss food once these signs are observed.

• Always store your stew in airtight containers immediately after it has cooled to room temperature as exposure to air can quicken spoilage. • Keeping the stew in the fridge is a good option if you plan on consuming it within a few days. • For longer storage, freezing your stew is the best option. Make sure to leave a bit of space at the top of the container as food tends to expand during freezing. • When defrosting frozen stew, it's best to move it from the freezer to the fridge for at least 24 hours before reheating. • Also make sure to stir the stew while reheating it to ensure even distribution of heat. • Note that reheating the stew multiple times can affect not only the quality but also the safety of the stew, hence it is advisable to only reheat the portion you intend to consume.