Bouillon cubes are a great ingredient to stock in your pantry to add flavor to your soups, stews, and slow-cooked dishes. But how many bouillon cubes you should store comes down to how long it lasts.
Most bouillon cubes have a shelf life of about 2-3 years if stored properly. However, it is best to consume them within time to make full use of their flavor.
Bouillon cubes are used as a convenient and cost-effective alternative to making homemade broth or stock from scratch.
They are essentially a concentrated cube of dehydrated stock typically made by simmering meat, vegetables, and herbs in water until the flavors are infused and then straining the liquid to remove any solids.
Bouillon cubes can also be made with various types of meat, including beef, chicken, and fish. Let’s check out how long bouillon cubes can last to make their best use.
How Long Do Bouillon Cubes Last?
| Type of Bouillon Cubes | Pantry |
|---|---|
| Store Bought (opened or unopened) | Up to 2 years past expiration date |
| Homemade | Up to 6 months |
Bouillon cubes help enhance the flavor of food. They can last for 2-3 years and more if stored properly. However, homemade bouillon cubes have a shorter shelf life of up to 6 months.
Bouillon cubes come tightly packed in foil sheets to protect them from getting exposed to air and water. An unopened pack can last longer than an open one.
Like every other food item, the quality of bouillon cubes can help indicate their condition. We will find out more about this in the sections below.
Do Bouillon Cubes Go Bad Easily?
Bouillon cubes have a long shelf life but can go bad over time. They may lose flavor and aroma and become discolored. If you find any such signs, it’s best to discard such cubes and purchase a new pack to avoid sickness.
How To Tell If Bouillon Cubes Have Gone Bad?
There are a few signs that indicate whether bouillon cubes have gone bad. Take a look at what these signs can be.
- Color: One of the easiest ways to check the quality of bouillon cubes is a color change. If you notice your bouillon cubes have changed color and become darker or lighter than usual, this could be a sign that they have gone bad.
- Appearance: If you notice your bouillon cubes turning clumpy or hard, it is a sign that it has been exposed to moisture. It can also lead to spoilage.
- Smell: If you notice a strange or unpleasant odor in bouillon cubes, it indicates they have gone bad. Such cubes should be discarded.
How Long Do Bouillon cubes stay Good After The Expiration Date?
When stored properly, bouillon cubes can last for a long time past their expiration date. However, the quality of the bouillon cubes may deteriorate over time. Their flavor and aroma may become less intense.
Bouillon cubes may still be safe to use even if they are past the expiration date if they are stored in a cool, moisture-free place, away from direct sunlight.
It’s best to trust your senses to determine whether bouillon cubes are still good to use. If the bouillon cubes have an off smell, strange appearance, or unusual texture, you should discard them.
How To Store Bouillon Cubes?
Bouillon cubes are a great addition to your pantry, but proper storage of them can help extend their shelf life and maintain their quality. Here are some tips for storing bouillon cubes the right way.
- Packaging: Do not open bouillon cubes until you are ready to use them. The packaging of bouillon cubes is designed to protect them from moisture and light.
- Storage: Bouillon cubes should be stored in a dry and cool place. Exposure to heat and moisture can cause bouillon cubes to spoil more quickly.
- Use an airtight container: If you’ve opened a packet of bouillon cubes, do not leave them open. Transfer them to an airtight container to prevent exposure to moisture.
- Refrigerate: Refrigerating bouillon cubes is a good idea, especially in the case of homemade bouillon cubes.
Can You Freeze Bouillon Cubes?
Yes, you can freeze bouillon cubes to extend their shelf life. Freezing bouillon cubes can prevent exposure to moisture and keep them fresh for a longer time.
To freeze bouillon cubes, place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and label them with the date of storage. Bouillon cubes can be frozen for up to six months.
When you’re ready to use the bouillon cubes, simply thaw them in the refrigerator or at room temperature before adding them to your recipe. You can also add the frozen bouillon cubes directly to a hot liquid to dissolve them, although this may take longer than if they were thawed first.
Conclusion
Bouillon cubes are versatile ingredients that can be used to make various dishes. They last longer if stored properly.
However, if you use bouillon cubes past their best-by date, check them properly. If you find any change in their appearance, taste, and smell, it’s best to discard them.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are bouillon cubes?
Bouillon cubes are concentrated cubes of dehydrated stock made by simmering meat, vegetables, and herbs in water.
What is the shelf life of bouillon cubes?
The shelf life of bouillon cubes is 2-3 years.
Do bouillon cubes ever expire?
Bouillon cubes do come with a best-by date. But they can be used even after crossing this date if there are no signs of spoilage.
Can we freeze bouillon cubes?
Yes, bouillon cubes can be frozen.
