Polenta Dish

A freshly prepared homemade polenta dish won't last more than a week in the fridge, even when properly stored. If it's store-bought (prepackaged and unopened), it might stay good up to the printed date on the package, usually around a few months. Once you've opened the package, you'll want to consume it within a week. If you've frozen your polenta dish, it will generally maintain its quality for two to three months.

To see if the polenta dish has gone bad, first check for any noticeable mold growth – this is a surefire sign your meal has expired! Off-smelling aromas are another indicator. The texture can also be a giveaway, as it should not be excessively dry or slimy. Take note of changes in color too, as this can indicate spoilage.

• The best way to store a polenta dish is in an airtight container to prevent it from being spoiled by any other odours or flavours in your fridge. • It is recommended that freshly-prepared polenta dishes are consumed shortly after cooking to ensure the best taste. • If you want to freeze a polenta dish, make sure to cool it down first. Plop it in an airtight, freezer-friendly container or plastic bag before putting it in the freezer. • When defrosting a frozen polenta dish, it's best to place it in the fridge and let it thaw overnight to maintain its texture. • Reheating your dish in a pan with a little added butter or oil can return some of the dish's original creaminess.