Pho is a broth-based Vietnamese noodle soup dish made from beef or chicken bones, herbs, spices, and rice noodles.
Whether you’ve made your pho from scratch or ordered it from a restaurant, it’s essential to know how long it lasts and whether it goes bad.
The shelf life of pho is affected by various factors, such as storage environment, temperature, and how it’s prepared.
Pho lasts for up to three days in the refrigerator, whether it is store-bought or homemade. If you want to keep it for more extended periods, freezing it is the best option. For better quality, freeze the pho within two days of preparing it.
What is Pho?
Pho is a staple Vietnamese dish and has become quite popular worldwide. It is made of beef or chicken bone broth, rice noodles, and assorted herbs and spices such as ginger, onion, coriander, and star anise.
Pho is famous for its deep umami flavor and is often topped with fresh ingredients such as sliced beef, beansprouts, and basil leaves.
This delicious dish is also known for its warming and comforting properties, making it a favorite comfort food for many.
How Long Does Pho Last?
Pho is a perishable food item, and it’s crucial to store and handle it properly to maintain its freshness.
Homemade Pho
Homemade pho lasts for up to three days in the refrigerator.
It’s best to store the pho in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge as soon as possible.
It’s crucial to refrigerate the pho within two hours of making it, or else it may spoil.
Pho can also be frozen for more extended periods, which will be discussed later in the article.
Store-Bought Pho
Store-bought pho is usually sold frozen or refrigerated with a use-by date label.
It’s crucial to check the use-by date before purchasing pho and to consume it before the expiry date.
Once opened, the pho must be used within three days, whether frozen or refrigerated.
How to Tell if Pho Has Gone Bad?
There are some noticeable signs of spoiled pho, and it’s essential to keep an eye on them to avoid any health risks.
Foul Smell
If pho smells sour, rancid, or off, it likely means it has gone bad and is unsafe to consume.
An unpleasant odor is the most common sign of spoiled food, and it’s crucial to discard the pho immediately.
Mold Growth
Mold growth on pho is a clear indication that it has gone bad and is no longer safe to consume.
If there are any visible signs of mold or discoloration on the pho, discard it immediately.
Slimy or Discolored Noodles
If the rice noodles in the pho have become slimy or discolored, this indicates that they have spoiled and are no longer safe to eat.
Off-Taste
If the pho tastes different from its usual taste, it’s an indication that it has gone bad and should be discarded.
It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to consuming spoiled pho, and it’s essential to dispose of it immediately if there are signs of spoilage.
How to Store Pho?
Proper storage of pho is essential to maintain its freshness and to prevent foodborne illnesses.
Room Temperature
Pho should never be stored at room temperature, as it can cause bacterial growth and spoilage.
It’s essential to store pho in the fridge or freezer as soon as possible and avoid leaving it out for more than two hours.
Refrigerator
Homemade pho should be stored in an airtight container and placed in the refrigerator immediately to keep it fresh.
Pho can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, and it’s crucial to consume it before the expiry date.
Store-bought refrigerated pho should also be stored in the fridge and used within three days of opening.
Freezer
Pho can be frozen for more extended periods, which is a great way to make the most out of your leftovers.
To freeze pho, let it cool down to room temperature and then store it in an airtight container or freezer bags.
Pho can be stored in the freezer for up to six months.
When reheating frozen pho, it’s essential to thaw it in the fridge overnight and then reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
Conclusion
In conclusion, pho is a delicious and beloved dish with a relatively short shelf life.
Homemade pho can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and must be consumed before the expiry date.
Store-bought pho should be used within three days of opening, whether frozen or refrigerated.
Pho can also be frozen for up to six months and must be reheated properly to maintain its taste and quality.
It’s crucial to store pho properly and keep an eye out for any signs of spoilage to ensure the safety of consumption.
If there are any visible signs of spoilage or if the pho smells or tastes unusual, it should be discarded promptly to avoid any health risks.
Jenny has always been passionate about cooking, and she uses her platform to share her joy of food with others. Her recipes are easy to follow, and she loves giving tips and tricks to help others create their own unique culinary creations.