Expiration & Storage Tips
When does anaheim chile expire?
Anaheim chiles last for about 2 weeks in the fridge when raw and uncut. If they are left at room temperature, they tend to deteriorate quicker and last only about 1 week. Once cut, they only last for 1-2 days. If you've cooked chiles in a dish, you can expect the prepared food to last about 3-4 days in the fridge. However, if you've frozen the chiles, they can remain good for up to 6 months.
How do you tell if anaheim chile is bad?
It's easy to tell when Anaheim chiles have gone bad:: they change color (turning a darker shade), develop soft spots, and get a mould-like growth which can be white or green in color. They can also shrivel, start looking dull, or get a slimy coating. As for the smell, fresh chiles have a fresh, earthy and slightly sweet aroma. Any strong, off-putting smell is a clear sign that the chiles have gone bad. Also, they might have a mushy or watery texture.
Tips for storing anaheim chile to extend shelf life
• Keep the chiles in a ventilated plastic bag in the refrigerator’s vegetable drawer.
• Avoid washing Anaheim chiles until you're ready to use them, as moisture can induce mould growth.
• For longer storage, you can freeze the chiles. To do this, wash and dry them before spreading out on a tray. Freeze until solid before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. This way the chiles don't stick to each other and it's easy to take out only what you need.
• If you've cut or sliced the Anaheim chiles, store in a sealed container in the fridge and use them within a day or two.
• You can also extend their shelf life by canning or pickling. This not only increases the life of the chiles but also adds a tangy twist to their flavor.