It can be tricky working out exactly how many cups of rice you will need for a meal and you end up with lots of leftovers. Or sometimes, you would like to have some cooked rice on hand ready to go when you come home from work. For these occasions, it’s a good idea to know exactly how to safely freeze cooked rice so you can enjoy it at your convenience.
Can you freeze cooked rice?
Yes, you can freeze cooked rice. Cool it as quickly as possible by placing it in a shallow container in the fridge. Once the rice is completely cold, transfer it to freezer bags in desired portion sizes, flatten to about 3cm thick and expel as much air as possible before sealing tightly. This will ensure you can store the rice neatly and thaw it quickly.
Don’t forget to label and date your rice. You can keep it frozen for up to one month.
How do you reheat frozen rice?
Todefrost frozen cooked rice, place it in the fridge overnight and use within one day of thawing. You can also heat small portions of rice from frozen in the microwave.
Can you freeze fried rice?
Just like cooked rice, it’s important to first cool fried rice as quickly as possible in the fridge. Then, transfer fried rice to freezer bags in portion sizes you will later need and expel as much air as possible. Flatten and label the bags and keep in the freezer for up to one month.
To defrost frozen fried rice, place in the fridge overnight and use within one day.
Can you freeze risotto?
We do not recommend freezing risottos. The texture changes significantly and it would not taste like your original meal.
More tips on freezing food
Our favorite rice recipes
FAQs
Can you freeze cooked rice? Yes, you can freeze cooked rice. Cool it as quickly as possible by placing it in a shallow container in the fridge. Once the rice is completely cold, transfer it to freezer bags in desired portion sizes, flatten to about 3cm thick and expel as much air as possible before sealing tightly.
Can you freeze rice after it has been cooked? ›
Yes, you can freeze cooked rice. In fact, it's actually preferable to storing it in the refrigerator, even if you plan to use it within a matter of days. This is because uncooked rice contains a spore-forming bacteria known as Bacillus Cereus.
What's the best way to store cooked rice? ›
So the key is to cool and refrigerate leftover rice as quickly as possible. Spread it out in a thin layer on a baking sheet or tray so it cools rapidly. Then, when cold, put into a container, cover and chill in the fridge. Keep the rice for no more than a day before reheating it – and then only reheat it once.
Can you freeze cooked rice in plastic containers? ›
Let rice cool about 20 minutes. If using a baking sheet, scoop rice into freezer-safe plastic bags or freezer containers. Label each bag or container with the date, type and amount of rice. If freezer bags are used, remove the air, press so contents lay flat for easier storage and seal.
Why is rice not suitable for freezing? ›
While it is perfectly safe to freeze your cooked rice, the food does not hold up upon reheating. This is because the cell walls of rice break down upon thawing, causing your perfectly cooked, fluffy rice to take on an unpleasant mushy texture.
Should you reheat frozen rice? ›
By making sure rice goes in the freezer within an hour of cooking, you will stop bacteria multiplying and producing a toxin. Before eating, you should defrost your rice in the fridge and then reheat it until it is steaming hot before eating immediately.
Can you freeze cooked rice in a Ziploc bag? ›
Freezing rice casseroles and other rice dishes is as easy as freezing plain cooked rice. Baked rice casseroles with meat, vegetables or cheese can easily be frozen. Just like with plain, cooked rice, be sure the rice dish is cooled before putting it in an airtight container or zip-top bag.
Can you store rice in Ziploc bags? ›
The Best Container for Storing Raw Rice
It's OK to use a zip-top bag in the short term, says Lundberg. “I recommend placing the original packaging in the zip-top bag to be sure your rice stays as fresh as possible.” Make sure to remove as much of the air from the bag as possible before you seal it closed.
How do you defrost frozen rice? ›
The best way to defrost rice is in the fridge. Once defrosted use within 24 hours. Or you can defrost it in the microwave on 'defrost' mode directly before using it. Reheat it in the oven or microwave until it's piping hot.
What is the best way to store rice long term? ›
Most grains are best preserved when they're stored at a temperature of 40 degrees or lower. Since rice is typically stored in the pantry and isn't temperature regulated, make sure to keep it in an airtight container where oxygen can't seep in. This will help your rice stay fresh for up to 10 years.
According to FoodSafety.gov, leftover white or brown rice is safe to eat for four to six days after being cooked and up to six months in the freezer. But that's only the half of it to ensure you don't get sick from a common cause of food poisoning.
How do you freeze rice without sticking it? ›
Step 2: Cool the Rice
It's important to let the rice cool quickly and completely in the refrigerator before freezing. This will help keep the grains separate instead of freezing in one sticky clump. Properly cooling your rice is also an important step to maintain food safety.
Can you eat cold rice after 2 days? ›
It is safe to eat the rice cold as long as it has been cooled and stored correctly. Do not leave reheated rice sitting on the counter. Following these steps will reduce the risk of food poisoning. Do not reheat the rice more than once as this further increase the risk of food poisoning.
Can you freeze and reheat minute rice? ›
Follow cooking instructions and store in smaller containers for easy meal prep or larger containers and freezer bags. They will freeze well for up to a month, then defrost in the fridge or microwave or leave them on the countertop. There are plenty of ways to make simple meals taste good with Minute Rice®!
