Expiration & Storage Tips
When does green chile expire?
Unopened canned green chile typically lasts for about 1 year past the date printed on the can if stored in a cool, dry pantry. An unopened jar of pickled green chiles can last for up to 2 years in similar conditions. Once opened, canned or jarred green chiles should be used within 5 to 7 days if kept in the refrigerator. Fresh green chiles will generally last for about 1 week in the refrigerator. If you freeze green chiles, they can extend their lifespan up to 8 to 12 months.
How do you tell if green chile is bad?
Telling if a green chile is bad can be relatively straightforward, even for those new to the kitchen. Start by looking for any signs of mold, which may appear as fuzzy spots with unusual colors (such as white, blue, or even black). Also, if the color has changed from green to a dull, lifeless shade or the texture has become wrinkled and soft, it's likely past its prime. Another clear sign of decay is an off-smell, which can be sour, musty, or simply 'off'. When it comes to canned or jarred green chiles, if you see the can bulging or the jar's lid has 'popped', it's a clear sign of bacterial activity, and the product should not be consumed.
Tips for storing green chile to extend shelf life
• Always store fresh green chiles in the refrigerator to extend their shelf life.
• Consider freezing green chiles if you don't plan on using them within a week. It's best to blanch them first and then freeze them in a solid layer on a parchment-lined tray. Once frozen, you can transfer them to a zip-top bag for long-term storage.
• For canned or jarred green chiles, always refrigerate after opening and ensure that the lid is securely closed.
• To avoid cross-contamination, keep green chiles away from other fruits and vegetables in the refrigerator, as their spicy compounds can transfer.
• Drying green chiles is another great way to preserve them and it adds a new range of flavor. Simply string up the chiles in a dry, warm, well-ventilated area and let them dry out completely. Then you can store the dried chiles in an airtight container in a cool, dark pantry.