Is there anything more frustrating than having leftover corned beef? You might be tempted to toss it in the trash, but don’t give up on it just yet! There are a few things you can do to save your corned beef and give it new life. One option is to freeze it. Read on to learn how to freeze corned beef so you can enjoy it later.
Quick Answer
You can freeze corned beef. The impact on taste and texture will be minimal, but it will last in the freezer for 3-4 months.
Can You Freeze Corned Beef?
Canned corned beef is a popular item to have on hand for quick and easy meals, but what happens if you don’t use it all before it goes bad? Can you freeze corned beef?
The answer is yes, you can freeze corned beef. However, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, freezing will impact the taste and texture of the meat. Corned beef that has been frozen will be chewier than fresh corned beef. Second, frozen corned beef will last for up to three months in the freezer.
How To Freeze Corned Beef?
When you are ready to freeze corned beef, first make sure that it is completely thawed. Cut the meat into 1-inch cubes and then blanch them in boiling water for 3 minutes. Drain the cubes and then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze the beef for 2 hours or until solid. Then, transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe container or bag.
Precautions to Take When Freezing Corned Beef
When freezing corned beef, there are a few key steps to take in order to ensure that the end product is safe to eat. First, make sure that the meat is completely thawed before cooking. Second, cook the meat thoroughly until it is no longer pink. Finally, avoid cross contamination by keeping raw meat separate from cooked meat.
How To Thaw Frozen Corned Beef
To thaw frozen Corned Beef, you will need to place it in the refrigerator for 24 hours. After 24 hours, the Corned Beef will be completely thawed and ready for cooking.
How Long Does Corned Beef Last (Stays Fresh) Outside at Room Temperature?
The shelf life of corned beef is about three to five days when stored at a temperature of 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below. When kept in a refrigerator, it will last for about two weeks.
Corned beef can also be frozen for up to four months. To thaw, place the corned beef in the refrigerator overnight or submerge it in cold water for a short time. Do not cook frozen corned beef because it may not reach a safe internal temperature before being served.
How Long Does Corned Beef Last (Stays Fresh) in the Fridge?
Corned beef will last in the fridge for 3-5 days. After that, it’s best to discard it.
It’s important to note that different brands of corned beef may have different shelf lives. Always check the packaging to be sure.
Furthermore, it’s important to keep your fridge at a safe temperature. The ideal range is between 35 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Anything above or below this range can cause your food to spoil more quickly.
How To Use Up Extra/Leftover Corned Beef?
Ideas:
1) Make a quick and easy corned beef hash.
2) Add it to a quesadilla or pizza.
3) Use it as the filling for a Reuben sandwich.
4) Toss it with some pasta and veggies for a simple dinner.
5) Serve it up as part of a hearty breakfast scramble.