Maximize the Shelf Life of Opened Dry Chorizo Sausage

Dry chorizo sausage is a spicy, flavorful cured sausage that adds bold taste to dishes. But once opened, how long does dry chorizo sausage stay fresh in the fridge or freezer? Follow proper storage and these shelf life tips to extend the life of opened packages.

Overview of Dry Chorizo Sausage

Dry chorizo sausage originates from Spanish and Portuguese cuisine. It gets its distinctive red color and smoky, spicy flavor from paprika and other seasonings.

Key traits of dry chorizo sausage:

• Made from coarsely ground pork
• Cured and fermented
• Contain paprika, garlic, herbs and spices
• Casing removed before sale typically
• Sold in links or as ground chorizo
• Has a firm, dry texture

Unlike fresh raw chorizo, the dry cured variety doesn’t require cooking before eating Its low moisture content allows it to be kept without refrigeration when unopened.

Refrigerator Shelf Life when Opened

Once opened, dry chorizo sausage requires refrigeration. But how long does opened dry chorizo sausage stay fresh in the fridge?

Properly stored, opened dry chorizo sausage will maintain best quality for about 2-3 weeks in the refrigerator.

To help maximize fridge life

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil, or place in a resealable plastic bag.

• Minimize air exposure by pressing out excess before sealing.

• Store towards the back of the refrigerator, at 40°F or below.

• Use opened dry chorizo within 3 weeks for peak freshness and flavor.

Freezing for Even Longer Storage

For extended shelf life, opened dry chorizo can also be frozen.

Properly frozen, dry chorizo sausage will maintain optimal quality for 8-10 months in the freezer.

To freeze opened packages:

• Wrap tightly in plastic or foil.

• Place in freezer bag or container to prevent freezer burn.

• Freeze at 0°F or colder.

• Use frozen chorizo within 10 months for best quality.

Signs Dry Chorizo Has Spoiled

Check opened dry chorizo sausage for these signs of spoilage:

• Mold growth
• Slimy or sticky texture
• Unpleasant odors
• Dull or faded color
• Dry, cracked casing

Discard chorizo sausage once it shows any signs of spoilage. Consuming spoiled chorizo can potentially cause food poisoning.

Storing Chorizo Sausages Safely

Follow these tips for safe storage:

• Always refrigerate after opening.

• Keep raw meats like chorizo separate from ready-to-eat foods.

• Wash hands, utensils, and surfaces after contact with raw chorizo.

• Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

• Cook or reheat fully when using chorizo in recipes.

Proper handling prevents cross-contamination and foodborne illness when enjoying chorizo.

Extending Life of Sliced Chorizo

For sliced or chopped dry chorizo, used opened packages within 1 week in the refrigerator. Keeping it sliced speeds up deterioration compared to intact links.

Or for maximum shelf life, freeze sliced or crumbled dry chorizo in an airtight container. It will last 8-10 months frozen.

Chorizo Storage Times Chart

Here is a quick reference for chorizo sausage storage times:

Uses for Dry Chorizo Sausage

Dry chorizo makes a flavorful addition to many dishes:

• Tacos, burritos, enchiladas
• Quesadillas, nachos, dips
• Paella, rice dishes
• Soups, stews, chilies
• Scrambled eggs, omelets
• Pasta, pizza, sandwiches
• Salads, potatoes, vegetables

Its versatility makes having opened chorizo sausage on hand convenient. Follow the storage times to keep it fresh and ready to use.

Making Your Own Dry Chorizo

You can also make homemade dry chorizo sausage:

• Use a sausage mix with paprika, garlic, oregano and cayenne.
• Stuff mixture into casings and tie off links.
• Allow to ferment 1-2 days.
• Hang and air dry links until firm.

This allows you to control the spicing and drying. Store homemade chorizo in the fridge up to 1 week after opening.

The Verdict on Opened Dry Chorizo Storage

Following proper storage methods can extend the shelf life of opened dry chorizo sausage to 2-3 weeks in the fridge. For even longer-term storage in the freezer, dry chorizo will keep at peak quality for 8-10 months. With the right storage and handling, you can continue enjoying dry chorizo’s bold flavor long after opening.