Patrick Oconnell
Puto is a Filipino rice cake that is usually eaten as a snack or side dish. It is made with rice flour, coconut, and glutinous rice, and often includes toppings such as cheese and salted eggs. The soft, fluffy texture of puto is created by steaming the cakes, and they are best enjoyed fresh. When properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, puto cheese can last 3 to 5 days, but it is recommended to consume it within 3 days as the texture will not be the same. Freezing puto is also an option, which can extend its shelf life to several months or even a year.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Refrigeration | 3-5 days in an airtight container |
| Freezer | Can last for months to a year |
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What You'll Learn
Puto cheese can last 3-5 days in the fridge
Puto is a Filipino steamed rice cake that is usually eaten as a snack or side dish. It is often made with rice flour, but all-purpose flour can also be used. The soft and fluffy cakes are typically flavoured with cheese, but other ingredients such as ube, pandan, salted eggs, and coconut can be added.
Puto cheese is a popular variety of puto. It is made with a combination of flour, sugar, baking powder, milk, egg, water, butter, vanilla extract, and cheese. The cakes are steamed, and a slice of cheese is added on top before serving.
To store puto cheese, it is important to refrigerate it in an airtight sealed container. This will help to keep the cakes moist and fresh. When properly stored, puto cheese can last 3-5 days in the fridge. If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze it. However, the texture may not be the same as fresh puto cheese.
Some tips to consider when making puto cheese include using a gentle boil or simmer when steaming to prevent cracking, straining the batter to remove lumps, and using sliced cheese instead of grated cheese to create a surprise pocket of cheese in the cakes.
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It can be frozen and kept for months to a year
Puto cheese can be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days if it is packed in an airtight plastic bag or container. However, if you want to keep it for longer, freezing is a great option. Freezing can extend the shelf life of puto cheese by several months to a year. This is especially useful if you have bought or prepared a large quantity of puto cheese and want to enjoy it over an extended period.
To freeze puto cheese, start by cutting it into portions or slices of your desired size. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap or aluminium foil to prevent air exposure and moisture loss. Place the wrapped portions in a freezer bag or airtight container. You can also use vacuum-sealed bags designed for freezing, which will maximise the shelf life and minimise the risk of freezer burn. Label the bag or container with the storage date, and try to consume the frozen puto cheese within a year for the best quality.
When you're ready to enjoy your frozen puto cheese, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature. The thawing process may take a few hours, depending on the size of your puto cheese portions. Once thawed, you can enjoy the puto cheese as is or reheat it to restore its texture and flavour. To reheat, you can steam the puto cheese or use an oven, toaster, or microwave, following the specific instructions for your chosen method.
It's important to note that the texture of the puto cheese may change slightly after freezing and thawing. It might not have the exact same fluffy texture as fresh puto cheese, but it will still be safe to eat and delicious. If you plan to freeze puto cheese frequently, consider investing in freezer bags or containers specifically designed for freezing, which will help maintain quality and freshness.
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Use an airtight plastic bag or container
Puto cheese is a delicious Filipino treat, but it's important to store it properly to ensure it stays fresh and tasty. Using an airtight plastic bag or container is a great way to keep your puto cheese lasting for several days. Here are some detailed steps and tips to help you make the most of this storage method:
Firstly, choose an airtight container that is clean and dry. You can use a plastic bag or a container with a secure lid, ensuring there are no holes or tears that could let air in. If you're using a plastic bag, squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing it tightly. This creates a vacuum-like environment that slows down the growth of bacteria and mould, keeping your puto cheese fresh.
When placing the puto cheese in the container, it's best to avoid piling them up. Arrange them in a single layer if possible, as this prevents the puto cheese from being crushed or deformed. This is especially important if you plan on storing them for several days.
It's also a good idea to label the container or bag with the date of storage. This way, you can keep track of how long the puto cheese has been refrigerated and ensure you consume it within the recommended timeframe. As long as it is properly stored in an airtight container, puto cheese can last in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days.
To further extend the shelf life of puto cheese, you can freeze them. This is a great option if you don't plan on consuming them within a few days. When you're ready to enjoy your frozen puto cheese, simply thaw and re-steam them. Keep in mind that the texture may not be exactly the same as fresh puto cheese, but it's still a convenient way to preserve your treats.
By following these simple steps, you can enjoy your puto cheese for longer while maintaining its delicious taste and fluffy texture. Remember to practise good hygiene when handling food, and always ensure your storage containers are clean and suitable for food storage.
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Reheat by thawing and steaming
Puto is a Filipino rice cake that is usually eaten as a merienda or snack. It is one of the most popular kinds of dessert in the Philippines. Puto with cheese is a soft, fluffy steamed cake topped with creamy, melted cheese for a savory contrast.
Puto with cheese can be made with simple ingredients. The recipe usually involves combining flour, sugar, and baking powder. Milk and egg are then added and mixed using a whisk or electric mixer at medium speed until the batter becomes smooth. Water, butter, and vanilla extract are then added and mixed well for a minute or two. Lastly, grated cheese is folded in slowly using a spatula or spoon.
The puto molds are then greased with butter and filled with batter up to 3/4 full. The bottom of the steamer is filled with water and brought to a gentle simmer over very low heat. The molds are placed in the steamer basket and steamed for about 10 to 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
To reheat puto, it is recommended to thaw and re-steam. However, it is important to note that the texture may not be the same as when it was first made. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to reheat puto by thawing and steaming:
Step 1: Thaw the Puto
Remove the puto from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour. If you are in a hurry, you can also thaw the puto by placing it in the refrigerator overnight or for a few hours before reheating.
Step 2: Prepare the Steamer
Fill the bottom of your steamer with water and bring it to a gentle simmer over low heat. You can use a stove-top steamer or an electric steamer, depending on what you have available. Make sure to wrap a cloth or kitchen towel around the lid to catch any water that may drip onto the puto.
Step 3: Reheat the Puto
Once the water is simmering, place the puto in the steamer basket and cover. Steam the puto for about 5 to 10 minutes, or until it is heated through. You can check if it is ready by inserting a toothpick into the center of the puto; if it comes out clean, it is done.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Serve
Turn off the heat and add a slice of cheese on top of each puto. Cover the steamer for about a minute to allow the residual heat to melt the cheese slightly. Serve the puto warm and enjoy!
By following these steps, you can reheat your puto and enjoy it again. While the texture may not be exactly the same as when it was first made, it will still taste delicious and allow you to savor the flavors of this Filipino delicacy.
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Use fresh baking powder for optimum rise and avoid lumps
Puto is a Filipino rice cake that is usually eaten as a snack. It is traditionally made with rice flour, but all-purpose flour can also be used. The rice grains are soaked overnight and then processed into a dough. To make the puto fluffy, yeast or baking powder is added to the batter as a leavening agent.
Baking powder is a chemical leavener that, when combined with an acid and heat, will cause the batter to rise in the oven. It is activated when it comes into contact with the batter and again when heated. Therefore, it is important to use fresh baking powder for the optimum rise. If the baking powder is old, it may not work perfectly even if it passes the fizz test. The expiration date on the container is the best guide, but you can also test it by mixing a teaspoon with a third cup of hot water. Lots of bubbles mean it's good to use, while few or no bubbles mean it's time to get a new container.
Expired baking powder can change the flavour and texture of your treats. They may not taste as good and might feel less fluffy or light. This is because moisture is baking powder's biggest enemy—it weakens the powder, making it less effective. Therefore, it is important to store baking powder in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing it near a stove or other heat sources. A pantry or cupboard away from heat and moisture is perfect.
To avoid lumps in your puto, sift the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt together. This will help create a smooth batter and distribute the baking powder more evenly. Make sure that the egg is at room temperature and the butter is completely melted before combining them with the milk.
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Frequently asked questions
When properly stored in an airtight sealed container, puto cheese can last 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator.
To store puto cheese, place it in an airtight plastic bag or container and refrigerate. You can also freeze it.
To reheat puto cheese, thaw and re-steam it. However, the texture will not be the same as when it was freshly made.
Frozen puto cheese can last for months to a year.
