Once canned beans are opened, they become perishable and should be either prepared properly, consumed, or refrigerated. To preserve flavor, transfer the canned food to plastic or glass containers before refrigerating. Leftovers should be consumed after 3 to 4 days of refrigeration. Freezing your extra canned beans should be fine. In fact, I often make a big batch of chili (using canned beans), and then freeze some of it with no change in quality. Simply store your extra beans in a heavy plastic container or plastic freezer bag and use within 6 months.
If you aren’t planning to use the beans within five days, the best thing to do is freeze them. Put them in a freezer bag or a freezer safe plastic tub, cover with fresh water, and freeze. You can drain off the water when they are thawed out and use however you like.
Once canned beans are opened, they become perishable and should be either prepared properly, consumed, or refrigerated. To preserve flavor, transfer the canned food to plastic or glass containers before refrigerating. Leftovers should be consumed after 3 to 4 days of refrigeration. Freezing your extra canned beans should be fine. In fact, I often make a big batch of chili (using canned beans), and then freeze some of it with no change in quality. Simply store your extra beans in a heavy plastic container or plastic freezer bag and use within 6 months.
Canned beans only last about three or four days in the refrigerator after opening. Any longer, and they will begin to turn — growing harmful pathogens like bacteria and mold and stinking up your fridge. Freezing your beans, on the other hand, will safely preserve them for quite a bit longer. To do so properly, simply transfer the unused beans into an airtight container, cover the beans in a layer of fresh water, and then place them in the freezer. This method will keep beans fresh for anywhere from three to six months, depending on the type.
When it comes time to use your frozen beans, be sure to thaw them carefully to best preserve their texture. Avoid rushing the thaw by heating them in the microwave or with direct heat; rather, allow them to come up to a warmer temperature by leaving them in the fridge or on the counter until the water is melted. You can then strain the water from the beans and reheat them as you would any other canned beans.
Leftover canned beans, when frozen correctly, deliver the same delicious taste and texture as freshly opened beans. Feel free to drop them into a soup to make it richer and heartier, like in this quick pasta e fagioli, or add them to fill up a tasty batch of vegetarian tacos. If classic uses for beans dont suit your fancy, try a less traditional application, like making black bean brownies or even including beans in your next smoothie.
Canned beans are a pantry powerhouse for so many reasons. This kitchen staple is not only nutritious, tasty, and versatile, but also incredibly convenient. There is nothing simpler than opening a can of already-soaked beans whenever you need them, and you can stock up without guilt knowing that their shelf-stable nature makes them last a long while. Once open, however, these beans are at risk of spoiling more quickly. That is why, if you anticipate having leftover beans when using a can, we highly recommend freezing them.
How to Save Leftover Canned Beans – CHOW Tip
FAQ
Do canned beans freeze well?
How do you store canned beans after opening?
Do beans get mushy after freezing?
Can you freeze canned kidney beans once opened?
Can you freeze canned beans?
If you want to store leftover canned beans but don’t intend on using them within 3-4 days, you can freeze them. Once frozen, you can thaw and eat the leftover beans within four months. The same rules apply after you take the beans out of the freezer to thaw; eat within 3-4 days.
Are beans safe to store in a plastic storage container with a lid in the basement?
The best way to store beans is in an airtight storage container in a cool, dark place. They should last at least 3 years this way. However, it is not recommended storing more beans than you can rotate through in 3 months; the beans are too susceptible to damage, even in airtight containers.
Can You refrigerate canned beans?
Label the container with the type of beans and the date you opened the can. Place the container in the refrigerator, ideally on one of the lower shelves. Keep the beans refrigerated at a temperature below 40°F (4°C). By refrigerating your canned beans, they can stay fresh for up to 3-5 days.
Can beans be frozen?
Olive oil is not appropriate for freezing, so you should cover the beans with water instead of oil and then seal the container. Before placing it in the freezer, you should add a label to the lid of the container, stating the date of freezing. This will tell you when you need to use the beans to ensure that they are safe to eat.