How to Prevent Gumbo From Spoiling

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Things You'll Need

  • Airtight container

  • Sealable freezer bags

  • Saucepan

  • Instant-read thermometer

Reheat the gumbo thoroughly when you serve it again.
Image Credit: FtLaudGirl/iStock/Getty Images

The best part of a delicious gumbo is having leftovers for lunch the next day. But you need to be careful to properly store your gumbo to prevent it from spoiling, especially if you've made a seafood gumbo. Seafood does not keep well in the refrigerator, and eating bad gumbo is a recipe for food poisoning. If you properly store and freeze your leftover gumbo, it should be easy to keep from spoiling.

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Step 1

Allow the gumbo to cool to room temperature, but leave it out for no more than 2 hours, or 1 hour if the room is hot.

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Step 2

Pour the gumbo into an airtight plastic container and put it in the refrigerator. Seafood gumbo will last at most three or four days in the refrigerator. The temperature in the refrigerator should be no more than 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Or, put the container in the freezer at 0 F and keep it there for no more than three months.

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Step 3

Reheat your gumbo in a saucepan to 165 F and eat it immediately. If it was in the freezer, defrost the gumbo before heating it by transferring it from the freezer to the refrigerator, or letting it sit in a sealed bag in a bowl of cold water. Change the water every 30 minutes.

Tip

If you prefer, store the gumbo in a sealable freezer bag. Squeeze out the air and seal the bag before placing in the refrigerator or freezer. If you don't need to use it all at once, freeze smaller portions in several bags.

Warning

Spoiled food can carry a number of different types of dangerous bacteria. It may not be apparent that your food is tainted until after you get sick. Consult a physician if you feel feverish, nauseous or otherwise unwell after eating.

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