Topic: Reheating frozen pilau

[RubyDoo]

Hi

Question for those who make pilau in batches and then freeze -

Do you ( can you ) microwave straight from frozen or does it need to be defrosted first?

If from frozen - how long in microwave 750 +

Many thanks

[natterjak]

Yes, microwave straight from frozen for 3 mins in my 800W microwave, this based on a "standard" 550ml takeaway sized plastic tray.

[StoneCut]

Do make sure your rice is piping hot when you reheat it in order to kill off all bacillus cereus !

[Peripatetic Phil]

Do make sure your rice is piping hot when you reheat it in order to kill off all bacillus cereus !

Ever piping hot won't destroy the emetic toxins, though, if they are present, whence the recommendation to chill and freeze the rice a.s.a.p., before the toxins can develop [1].

** Phil.
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[1] http://www.foodsafety.govt.nz/elibrary/industry/safe_cooling-cooked_rice.htm

[natterjak]

Good link that Phil, thanks. Quite clearly written although I'm not sure what to make of the reference to keeping rice in the fridge at below 4 deg C. I thought 8 deg C was a normal fridge temperature?

[tonybatty]

I think 0-5 is recommended fridge temps, at least according to my fridge thermometer.

[Peripatetic Phil]

I think 0-5 is recommended fridge temps, at least according to my fridge thermometer.

5^oC is generally recommended, but I keep mine at 4^oc and find it greatly prolongs the life of some items.  Zero C is definitely too low !
** Phil.

[StoneCut]

Nice link, Phil.

[tonybatty]

Phil, why is 0C too low?

[Peripatetic Phil]

Phil, why is 0C too low?

Well, just because it is a 'fridge and not a freezer, really.  If you take a liquid out the 'fridge, you expect to be able to pour it straight away, not have to wait for it to defrost.  Even running mine at 4^oC, there are colder regions (e.g., right against the back, where the cooler pipes run) that can part-freeze liquids stored there; at zero C they would freeze for sure. 

** Phil.