Don't knock it until you try it; pickled bologna is unbelievably good and can even be addicting for some people. Once you have it, though, you might wonder, "How long is bologna good for?" You might be used to regular pickles and things like pickled beets, but since bologna is meat, be extra careful about the shelf life.
How Long Does Bologna Last?
Freshly chopped or sliced bologna purchased from a store deli counter will usually last up to a week in your refrigerator. Other kinds of packaged bologna are more processed and can last as long as two weeks after they are opened. You can extend this amount of time by leaving the package unopened. Some are highly shelf stable and can last as long as 12 months.
Video of the Day
Since there are so many kinds of bologna, the shelf life will depend on how the meat was prepared and stored. For the best results (and optimal food safety practice), either keep the meat wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap or in airtight containers inside your fridge. Do not leave it out at room temperature for more than two hours. Bologna can also be frozen, but you will want to wrap it tightly and put it in a freezer bag, and it can last up to two months.
Pickled Bologna Recipe
To make your own pickled bologna, start with 3 pounds of a good-quality ring bologna; you can also use unflavored German sausage or hot dogs. Cut up the meat as desired, place the pieces into a large gallon jar and add 12 bay leaves. In a separate bowl, combine 4 cups of white vinegar, 1/2 cup sugar, 2 teaspoons salt, 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes and 2 teaspoons of your favorite pickling spice. Mix well and pour into the jar.
This combination should cover the bologna entirely, but if it doesn't, just add some more vinegar. Close it tightly, put the jar in your refrigerator and give it four days to cure. You can also reduce the portion sizes and use a smaller jar to see if you like the taste first; this way, you won't be wasting as much money if you don't. Keep your pickled bologna refrigerated and use it within three weeks after making it.
Finding Pickled Bologna
You won't find pickled bologna on most restaurant menus, and if you prefer not to DIY, some companies make this tasty treat. Three to try are Miller's hot bologna, Fischer's pickled bologna and Koegel's pickled bologna. Each has a different taste, so you can see which one you like the best. They are sold at places like Walmart, Amazon, Kroger, IGA and other grocery stores.
Store-bought pickled bologna has a longer shelf life than DIY versions, but it can still go bad. You can look for the expiration date on the jar or label; it is usually up to three to four months because they are jarred under strict manufacturing guidelines. You can store it unopened in cool, dark areas but put it in the refrigerator once the seal is broken. You'll want to be sure to eat your store-bought pickled bologna within a few weeks after opening it. You can also use pickled bologna fried up as an appetizer, in hot entrees and in pickled bologna salad.