Onam Sadhya Leftovers: How To Store The Leftover Food Fresh For A Few More Days?

Sunday, August 27, 2023, 17:15

The festive season of Onam 2023 is here and everyone who celebrates has already begun the fun spree! And what is Onam without the sumptuous spread known as Onam Sadhya?!

For the unversed ones, this extravagant meal of Onam (sadhya) features an array of delectable dishes served on a banana leaf, creating a burst of flavours and aromas that are truly unforgettable.

However, it's not uncommon to find yourself with some leftovers after indulging in this grand feast - it is bound to happen - but don't let those precious flavours go to waste!

In this article, we'll guide you through the art of storing Onam Sadhya leftovers so you can savour the magic of this feast even after the celebrations are over.

How To Safely Store Onam Sadhya Leftovers?

The first step to storing leftovers is to act quickly. As soon as the feast is over, gather your containers and start packing. Leaving food out for too long can invite bacterial growth and compromise the taste and safety of the dishes.

Separate the various dishes from the Sadhya, such as rice, curries, pickles, and desserts. This not only helps in organizing but also prevents cross-flavouring. Each dish requires specific storage techniques to keep it fresh and tasty!

How to store Onam sadhya leftovers in the fridge?

The refrigerator will be your best friend here. Ensure your leftovers are cooled down to room temperature before placing them in airtight containers. This prevents condensation and helps maintain the integrity of the food.

How to store rice items after Onam?

Rice dishes are a staple in Onam Sadhya. To store rice-based items like "Parippu" and "Payasam," allow them to cool before refrigerating. It is advisable to consume them within a day or two to enjoy their optimal taste and texture.

How to store curry and other items in the fridge after Onam sadhya?

Curries and side dishes like "Avial" and "Thoran" can be stored for a slightly longer duration. Ensure they are stored in separate containers to preserve their individual flavours. Reheat gently on the stovetop to prevent loss of texture.

How to store sweets?

"Payasam" and other sweets are a delightful conclusion to the Sadhya. Store them in airtight containers and refrigerate. Be cautious with reheating sweets, as excessive heat can alter their consistency.

How to store pickles and papadams after Onam?

Zesty pickles and crispy papadams need special attention. Keep pickles in glass containers with tight lids and store them in a cool, dry place. Papadams can lose their crunch in the refrigerator, so it's best to store them separately.

Turn leftovers into new dishes!

Leftovers can be transformed into exciting new dishes. For instance, rice can be turned into flavourful fried rice, and curries can serve as delicious wraps. Experiment and let your creativity shine!

When should you throw the leftovers from Onam sadhya?

While the flavours of Onam Sadhya are delightful, sadly, they won't last forever. Follow the rule of thumb - if a leftover looks or smells off, it's time to let it go. Don't compromise your health for the sake of enjoying that sadhya item one more time.

Tips To Store Onam Sadhya Leftovers

Separate curries and rice.
Refrigerate within 2 hours.
Use airtight containers.
Consume within 2 days.
Reheat gently.
Avoid reheating coconut oil dishes.
Freeze for longer storage.
Label containers with dates.
Opt for glass containers.
Prevent cross-contamination.

On A Final Note...

As the Onam festivities come to an end, the joy of relishing Onam Sadhya doesn't have to fade away. With proper storage techniques and a dash of creativity, you can extend the magic of this feast.