If you’re a fan of pickled pork, you may be wondering how long it can last in the fridge or freezer. Proper storage is key to ensuring that your pickled pork stays fresh and safe to eat.
In this article, we’ll explore the best practices for preparing and storing pickled pork, as well as how long it can last in different storage conditions.
Whether you’re a seasoned pickling pro or a newbie to the world of pickled meats, read on to learn more about how to keep your pickled pork delicious and safe for consumption.
How Long Does Pickled Pork Keep?
Pickled pork is a delicious and versatile meat that can be used in a variety of dishes. But how long can you keep it before it goes bad?
If properly prepared and stored, pickled pork can last up to 6 months in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The key to proper preparation is adding salt and acidity to the pickled pork, which helps to preserve it and keep it safe to eat.
It’s also important to include enough liquid to completely cover the pork and make sure that there is no air present in the container. Pickled pork should be stored in a cool, dark place and kept away from heat and sunlight.
If you want to extend the shelf life of your pickled pork, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. However, there is a slight risk of the meat drying out in the freezer, so it’s important to wrap it tightly in plastic bags and remove as much air as possible.
Preparing And Pickling Pork
To prepare pickled pork, you will need a boneless pork shoulder butt roast, weighing around 4 pounds. First, trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder and cut it into 1-2 inch pieces. Next, mix together a rub made of brown sugar, kosher salt, and cayenne pepper. Dip each piece of pork into the rub, making sure it is lightly coated, and then shake off any excess.
In a large saucepot, combine apple cider vinegar, water, sliced onions, garlic, mustard seed, and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Once done, turn off the burner and let the mixture cool down.
Once the pork has sat for two hours and the brine is cool to the touch, carefully pour the liquid into two large ziplock bags. Squeeze out as much air as possible and tightly seal the bags. Place the bags in a large bowl and refrigerate for 7 days. Flip the bags once a day during this time.
After 7 days, remove the pickled pork from the bags and drain the brine. You can divide the pickled pork into portions and wrap them in plastic before storing them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Before using pickled pork that has been frozen or refrigerated, rinse it off to remove any extra mustard seeds or reduce vinegar flavor.
Proper Storage Of Pickled Pork
To properly store pickled pork, it’s important to follow a few key steps. First, let the pickled pork with its juices cool to room temperature. Then, wrap it in a plastic wrapper in portions for easier reheating and place it in the fridge. Leftover pickled pork should last up to 4 days in the refrigerator if properly stored.
Uncooked pickled pork can last up to 3 months in the freezer if properly stored. To do this, wrap the pickled pork in plastic bags and place it in a zip-freezer bag. It’s important to check the smell and color of the pickled pork to determine if it’s still in good condition. Discard any pork with a foul odor, slimy texture, or dull stain.
The same storing process applies to cooked, pickled pork. However, leftovers have a shorter lifespan and can quickly dry out when stored for too long. It’s important to store cooked pickled pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for no more than 2 weeks.
Whether storing cooked or uncooked pickled pork, it’s important to keep it away from heat and sunlight, and to make sure there is no air present in the container or bag. By following these storage guidelines, you can safely enjoy your pickled pork for months to come.
How Long Does Pickled Pork Last In The Fridge?
Pickled pork can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator if it is properly stored. It’s important to let the pickled pork with its juices cool to room temperature before wrapping it in plastic portions for easier reheating. Leftover pickled pork should be stored in an airtight container or plastic bag to prevent it from drying out or absorbing any other flavors from the fridge.
It’s important to check the smell and color of the pickled pork before eating it to ensure that it’s still in good condition. Discard any pork with a foul odor, slimy texture, or dull stain. It’s also important to note that cooked, pickled pork has a shorter lifespan than uncooked pickled pork and can quickly dry out when stored for too long.
Can You Freeze Pickled Pork?
Yes, you can freeze pickled pork. In fact, freezing is a great way to extend the shelf life of your pickled pork. However, it’s important to take certain precautions to ensure that the meat stays fresh and flavorful.
First, make sure that the pickled pork is completely cooled before freezing. You can divide it into portions and wrap it tightly in plastic bags or freezer-safe containers. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
When you’re ready to use the pickled pork, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. You can also thaw it in the microwave or by placing it in a bowl of cold water, but be sure to cook it immediately after thawing.
It’s worth noting that freezing can affect the texture and flavor of the pickled pork, so it’s best to use it within 3 months for optimal freshness. Additionally, if you notice any signs of spoilage, such as a foul odor or slimy texture, discard the meat immediately.
How Long Does Pickled Pork Last In The Freezer?
If you plan on freezing your pickled pork, it’s important to know that it can last up to 3 months in the freezer if stored properly. The ideal temperature for storing frozen pickled pork is 0°F or below.
To freeze pickled pork, wrap it tightly in plastic bags and remove as much air as possible. This will help prevent freezer burn and keep the pork fresh for longer. It’s also important to label the bags with the date that you froze the pork so that you can keep track of how long it has been in the freezer.
When you’re ready to use your frozen pickled pork, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. It’s best to use thawed pickled pork within 2-3 days of thawing. If you notice any signs of spoilage, such as a foul odor, slimy texture, or dull stain, discard the pork immediately.
Signs Of Spoiled Pickled Pork
Despite the proper preparation and storage, pickled pork can still spoil if not stored or handled correctly. Some signs of spoiled pickled pork include a sour or rancid smell, a slimy texture, or a change in color. If you notice any of these signs, do not consume the pickled pork.
Another sign of spoiled pickled pork is mold growth. If you see any mold on the surface of the meat or in the liquid, discard the entire container immediately. Mold can produce mycotoxins that can cause illness if ingested.
It’s important to note that even if the pickled pork appears and smells fine, it may still be unsafe to eat if it has been stored for too long. Use your best judgement and rely on the expiration date as a guideline for when to consume the pickled pork.
