Your complete guide to chili crisp sauce - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
Storage times and freshness tips for chili crisp sauce in different conditions.
Safety first: This guide provides general information. When in doubt, throw it out! Trust your senses and err on the side of caution. If something smells, looks, or tastes off, don't consume it.
Bulging lid, unusual separation that doesn't resolve with shaking, visible mold (rare), off-odor upon opening.
Check the 'Best By' or 'Expiration' date on the jar. Visually inspect the jar for any signs of swelling or leakage. Upon opening, sniff for any sour, fermented, or chemical smells. Look for any visible mold or unusual discoloration.
Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat, which can degrade the oil quality over time. High oil content and proper sealing contribute to its long shelf life before opening.
Visible mold growth (can be white, green, black, fuzzy, or flat, often on the surface or within the solids), sour or fermented smell, rancid oil smell, significant discoloration (darkening or greening of the oil or solids), changes in texture (solids becoming mushy or unusually soft, oil becoming cloudy and not clearing after warming slightly).
Visually inspect the surface and throughout the jar for any signs of mold. Sniff the sauce for any off-odors – a healthy chili crisp should have a pleasant, aromatic, spicy smell. Check the texture of the solids; they should still have some crispness or firm texture, not be overly mushy. If any of these signs are present, discard the product.
Always use clean, dry utensils to scoop out the chili crisp to prevent introducing bacteria or moisture. Ensure the lid is tightly sealed after each use. While some traditional recipes might suggest room temperature storage for opened chili crisp due to high oil content, refrigeration is strongly recommended for most commercial products to maintain optimal freshness, prevent rancidity, and inhibit microbial growth, especially if they contain ingredients like garlic or onion that can spoil.