Storing homemade vegetable broth properly can help maintain its quality and extend its shelf life. Here's a simple guide on how to do it:
Cooling: First, allow the vegetable broth to cool. Do not place hot broth directly into your refrigerator as it can raise the overall temperature of the fridge, potentially compromising the safety of other stored foods.
Transfer to a Container: Once it's cooled down, transfer the broth into airtight containers. You can use glass jars, plastic containers, or even heavy-duty freezer bags. If you plan to freeze some of the broth, remember to leave some space at the top of the containers to allow for expansion as the liquid freezes.
Refrigeration: Place the containers in the refrigerator. Homemade vegetable broth can last for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing: If you'd like the broth to last longer, you can store it in the freezer where it can last up to 4-6 months. For portion control and easy thawing, consider freezing the broth in ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag. This way, you can just take out as many cubes as you need without thawing the entire batch.
When you're ready to use your broth, if it was refrigerated, just reheat it in a saucepan over medium heat. If it was frozen, you can either thaw it in the fridge overnight or use the defrost function on your microwave. You can also put the frozen broth directly into a pot and thaw it over low heat on the stovetop.
Remember to always check the broth before using it. If it smells off, has mold, or if the color or texture has changed, it's best to err on the side of caution and throw it out.