Expiration & Storage Tips
When does Cioppino expire?
Cioppino, which is a rich, hearty seafood stew, is typically safe to consume for up to 48 hours once prepared when it's properly refrigerated. It is not typically a pre-packaged item that comes with a printed expiration date. If you've frozen your cioppino, it can last up to 4-6 months. However, it's best quality-wise if used within the first month of freezing.
How do you tell if Cioppino is bad?
Seafood, in general, will give clear signs that it has gone bad. Try smelling your cioppino; if it smells sour, yeasty or even like ammonia, it's likely spoiled. You might also notice a change in color, flavour, or consistency, if it's gone bad, such as seafood becoming mushy. When in doubt, always throw it out!
Tips for storing Cioppino to extend shelf life
• Always store your cioppino in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth.
• Use airtight, shallow containers to store your stew as it will cool down more quickly and reduces the risk of bacterial growth.
• For longer storage, portion out your leftover cioppino and freeze it. You can reheat directly from frozen or transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight.
• Avoid refreezing a thawed cioppino to maintain food safety and quality.