The Simple Guide to Freezing and Storing Curly’s Pulled Pork

As a pulled pork enthusiast, I know that Curly’s is one of the best brands out there. Their tender, smokey pulled pork is delicious straight out of the package or on a sandwich. However, like most cooked meats, Curly’s pulled pork only lasts 3-5 days in the fridge after opening. So what’s the best way to freeze and store it, so you can enjoy it for months to come? We’re breaking it down in this simple guide.

Why Freezing Pulled Pork is a Great Idea

Freezing pulled pork offers several advantages

• Saves money. Buying pulled pork in bulk and freezing it saves you money compared to buying smaller packs time and time again. Curly’s large 4 lb. packages are very cost effective.

• Avoid food waste. Freezing ensures none of that delicious pulled pork goes bad before you can eat it. Properly frozen it will keep for 2-3 months.

• Saves time. Keeping pulled pork in the freezer gives you instant access to the main component of quick and easy meals. Thaw, heat, and add to tacos, sandwiches, pizza and more!

• Locks in freshness. Freezing right after opening seals in the fresh, smoked flavor and moisture of newly opened Curly’s pulled pork.

How to Freeze Curly’s Pulled Pork

Step 1) Allow pulled pork to cool completely after opening. You want it at room temperature before freezing.

Step 2) Portion into freezer bags or containers. For easy thawing and use, divide meat into 1 cup or 1⁄2 pound portions. Squeeze out excess air and seal bags.

Step 3) Label bags/containers with contents, quantity, and date frozen.

Step 4) Place flat in a single layer in the freezer until completely frozen, at least 2 hours. Then you can stack bags or place containers on top of one another.

Step 5) For best quality, use within 2-3 months. Frozen pork may last up to 6 months, but the flavor and texture decline over time.

Tip: You can also freeze large chunks or the whole slab of pulled pork to slice off pieces as needed. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.

Thawing Curly’s Pulled Pork

Properly thawing frozen pulled pork preserves texture and moisture.

• Overnight fridge thaw: Place sealed frozen bag or container in a bowl in the refrigerator. Thaw 24 hours for 1 lb. or up to 5 days for a full package.

• Cold water thaw: Submerge sealed bag in cold water, changing water every 30 minutes. About 30 minutes per 1 lb.

• Microwave thaw: Microwave individual portions on LOW in 30 second bursts, stirring between. Watch carefully to prevent cooking meat.

• Cook thawed: For dishes like tacos or pizza, you can cook from frozen. Just increase cooking time.

Once thawed, use within 3-5 days. Do not refreeze thawed pork.

Tips for Freezing Pulled Pork

Follow these tips for best frozen pulled pork results:

• Chill pork before freezing for faster freezing.

• Exclude all air from packages to prevent freezer burn.

• Use high-quality freezer bags designed for freezing meats.

• Layer single-portion bags in freezer for easy removal.

• Avoid repeatedly thawing and re-freezing as this causes moisture loss.

• When reheating, add a splash of chicken or beef broth or sauce to boost moisture.

Enjoying Your Frozen Curly’s Pulled Pork

The possibilities are endless when you’ve got tasty Curly’s pulled pork in the freezer! Here are some of my favorite ways to savor that smokey, tender pork once thawed:

• Piled high on rolls or buns for pulled pork sandwiches

• Mixed with barbecue sauce for quick homemade sliders

• Topped on salads and tacos or stirred into chili

• Added to mac and cheese or ravioli bakes for extra flavor

• Layered on pizza, nachos, baked potatoes, or fries

• Blended with eggs and spices and cooked into pork patties or meatballs

• Used in soups, stews, chilis, casseroles, and stir fries

So try stocking up and freezing pulled pork from Curly’s. Follow this guide for hassle-free freezing and storage. Then get ready to bring the flavor whenever you need it!