Can you freeze soup in Tupperware – and how?
Freezing soup is a great way to preserve leftovers and have a quick and convenient meal on hand. When it comes to freezing soup, many people wonder if Tupperware is a suitable container. The good news is, yes, you can freeze soup in Tupperware! But there are a few important steps to follow to ensure that your soup freezes safely and reheats perfectly.
1. Freeze your soup the same day you make it
If you plan to store leftover soup, it’s best to freeze it the same day you make it. This helps preserve the freshness and integrity of the soup. As soup sits, the vegetables and meats absorb more liquid, which can affect its consistency. By freezing it soon after cooking and chilling, you can ensure that each component retains its individual flavors and textures.
2. Store your soup in individual meal sizes
When freezing soup, it’s best to store it in individual meal-size portions. This allows for even freezing and makes it easier to defrost and reheat later. Avoid storing an entire pot of soup in a large container, as this can lead to uneven freezing and reheating. Storing the soup in individual portions also eliminates the need to refreeze leftovers, which can affect the quality of the soup.
3. Use freezer-friendly Tupperware
Not all plastic containers are suitable for freezing. Look for Tupperware containers that are labeled as freezer-friendly, often with a snowflake symbol. These containers are designed to withstand freezing and thawing without cracking. Choose containers that are liquid-tight and airtight to help preserve the quality of the soup. BPA-free containers are also recommended for safe food storage.
4. Allow your soup to cool completely.
Before transferring hot soup to Tupperware containers, make sure it has completely cooled to room temperature. Putting hot food directly into plastic containers can potentially cause chemical leaching. While most plastic food containers are BPA-free, it’s still a good practice to avoid heating plastic containers and risking chemical transfer. Allow soup to cool completely before freezing.
5. Leave room for expansion
When freezing soup, it’s important to allow for expansion. When soup freezes, water changes state from liquid to solid, causing it to expand. To prevent containers from cracking or lids from popping off, leave enough room for the soup to expand. It’s recommended to leave about an inch of space between the soup and the top of the container. This allows for proper expansion without compromising the integrity of the container.
6. Cover with plastic wrap
To create a protective seal and prevent freezer burn, place a layer of plastic wrap directly on top of the soup before sealing the container. This will help minimize air exposure and maintain the quality of the soup during freezing. The seal doesn’t have to be perfect, but it does provide an extra layer of protection against air in the container.
7. Special considerations for pasta
If your soup contains noodles, it’s important to note that noodles do not freeze or reheat well. To avoid mushy noodles, it’s best to cook the noodles separately. Freeze the soup without the noodles and cook fresh noodles when you’re ready to reheat the soup. This will ensure that the noodles retain their texture and quality.
How to reheat soup frozen in Tupperware
When it comes to reheating soup that has been frozen in Tupperware, there are several methods you can choose from:
Microwave:
Transfer the frozen soup to a microwave-safe container. If time allows, thaw the soup on the counter or in the refrigerator before reheating. This will help evenly heat the soup and keep the meat and vegetables fresh. Cover the container with plastic wrap or a microwave cover to prevent splattering. Heat the soup in short bursts of 30-45 seconds, stirring occasionally. Avoid overcooking, which can result in mushy vegetables and tough meat.
Cooktop:
Transfer the frozen soup to a saucepan. Add about 1 inch of water to the bottom of the saucepan to prevent scorching. Heat the soup over low to medium heat, stirring periodically as the soup thaws. When the soup is hot enough, it’s ready to serve.
Instant Pot:
If you have an Instant Pot, it can be a quick and easy way to reheat frozen soup. Pour the frozen soup directly into the Instant Pot and add a little water or broth to keep it from burning. Set the Instant Pot to Soup or Pressure Cook and cook for a few minutes until the soup is heated through. Stir before serving.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, it’s important to make sure the soup reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to kill any potential bacteria and ensure food safety.
Freezing soup in Tupperware is a convenient and practical way to store and preserve homemade soups. By following these steps and guidelines, you can enjoy delicious homemade soup on busy days. Whether you’re making a big batch of soup or saving leftovers, Tupperware containers can be a reliable option for freezing and reheating soup with ease. So go ahead, make a comforting pot of soup, freeze it in Tupperware, and enjoy a warm and satisfying meal whenever you want!
FAQS
Can I freeze soup in Tupperware?
Yes, you can freeze soup in Tupperware. Tupperware containers labeled “freezer safe” are suitable for freezing soup.
Why is it important to freeze soup the day it’s made?
Freezing soup the same day it’s cooked helps maintain its freshness and preserves the integrity of its ingredients. The longer soup sits, the more liquid it absorbs, which can affect its consistency.
Can I store soup in large containers instead of individual servings?
It’s best to store soup in individual, meal-sized servings. Storing soup in large containers can result in uneven freezing and reheating. Refreezing leftovers can also affect the quality of the soup.
How do I know if my Tupperware is freezer safe?
Look for Tupperware containers that have a snowflake icon or are labeled as freezer friendly. These containers are designed to withstand freezing and thawing without cracking.
Can I put hot soup directly into a plastic Tupperware container?
No, it’s best to allow hot soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to plastic Tupperware containers. This will help prevent possible chemical leaching and ensure food safety.
Why should I leave room for expansion when freezing soup?
Soup expands when it freezes because the water changes state from liquid to solid. Allowing enough room in the container will prevent the container from cracking or the lid from popping off due to expansion during freezing.