How to Store Homemade Broth: Tips and Tricks to Keep it In the Fridge and in The Freezer

Homemade broth is a concentrate of flavor and nutrients: whether it is a vegetable broth, beef or chicken, you can use it with stuffed pasta or use it as a base for many other preparations. Usually the broth is prepared in abundance, so if you have some left over you can save it to use in those moments when you have little time to cook, or when you need something hot. How can you best store it and for how long?

How to Store Homemade Broth

Storing broth correctly is essential to maintain its flavor and nutritional properties. Here are some useful tips:

1. Store in the Refrigerator

If you need to store your meat broth for a short time, you can put it in the refrigerator. Use airtight containers to prevent the broth from absorbing foreign odors and wait until it has completely cooled before putting it in the refrigerator. Place it in the lower part of the refrigerator, where the temperature is more constant. In this way, if well preserved, it lasts for 3-4 days at most: after this period, we suggest you consume it.

2. Freeze the Broth

If you have made a large batch of stock, you can freeze it for longer storage. Pour the stock into rigid containers or freezer bags, leaving a little room at the top for expansion; alternatively, you can freeze it in small portions using an ice cube tray or very small containers such as paper cups; this will be useful if you want to use it in addition to other recipes such as a stew. Label the containers with the date of preparation to keep track of freshness. Frozen stock will keep for up to 10-12 months. To thaw, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator the night before you want to use it.

General Tips for Storing Broth

Immediately after cooking, immerse the pot containing the broth in a larger container filled with water and ice; this method allows you to quickly lower the temperature of the broth, preventing bacterial growth. Once cooled, transfer the broth to airtight glass or plastic containers and store it in the refrigerator. Before storing the broth, you can degrease it if you prefer: the layer of fat that forms on the surface, in fact, can encourage the formation of mold. Use a spoon to gently remove the solidified fat.