Michael Adams
When you’re in a hurry or too lazy to cook, takeout food saves the day. Well, we cannot deny how takeout food helps a lot in our daily lives. However, to get the most out of this food, you must choose the type of takeout food properly. So, what is the best food for takeout? Let’s find out!
What Is Takeout Food?
Before we dive in, let’s know a bit about takeout food. Basically, this is a type of prepared food that is packaged to be consumed away from its place of sale. Now, you can simply order this food by phone or online. Then, you can pick up the food by yourself or get it delivered to your doorstep.
Takeout food today ends up being popular because it is convenient. Plus, this food allows us to enjoy restaurant-quality food in the comfort of your own homes.
How Long Is Takeout Good for?
If you want to stay healthy by consuming food in custom takeout boxes, you should know how long the food will still be good.
The duration for which takeout food remains safe to consume depends on various factors.
What are they?
- The type of food
- Storage conditions
- The time you leave the food at room temperature
To get a better understanding, here’s a guide for you!
Freezing
Now, if you want to extend the shelf life of your leftovers, freezing will be the best option. However, while you can store frozen food for longer, note that its quality may reduce over time.
Some Specific Takeout Foods
We know that some specific foods have different storage recommendations. The same goes for takeout food. For example, you can only keep takeout food like rice-based dishes for one day.
Refrigeration
If you order home-cooked food or bring some leftovers from a restaurant, refrigerate it within two hours. Also, remember that you should not leave foods like meat, poultry, eggs, side dishes, or casseroles at room temperature for more than two hours. Once you store the food safely in the refrigerator, your leftover foods will remain safe for three to four days.
Know What Are the Best Foods for Takeout
Speaking of the best foods for takeout, basically, it depends on your preferences. However, of course, you can choose from some healthy and delicious takeout options!
Mexican Cuisine
First up, we all know that Mexican food is popular and loved by many people as it comes with bold flavors.
So, here are some takeout food choices from this cuisine!
- Grilled Chicken Tacos – You know, those soft tortillas filled with grilled chicken served with delicious salsa and fresh veggies
- Vegetable Fajitas – Yes, all those sautéed vegetables come in warm tortillas
How About Chinese Cuisine?
Don’t we all love how Chinese food offers various options for our takeout food options?
Take a look at some healthier choices below!
- Steamed Dumplings – These dumplings are a healthier alternative to fried ones
- Steamed Fish – This flavorful and nutritious fish is so delicious
Italian Cuisine:
Speaking of a favorite cuisine of many people across the globe.
Here are some healthy takeout options from Italian cuisine!
- Grilled Chicken – This one is a lean protein option with a side of vegetables
- Caprese Salad – You know that simple salad made with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil
- Pasta Primavera – Well, imagine having a pasta dish loaded with fresh vegetables
What Food Is Best Takeout When Sick?
Now, when you’re not feeling well or sick, you will need to get food items that you can easily digest. Most importantly, you will need foods with more nutrients to help you recover quickly.
Don’t worry; below are some suggestions for takeout food you can take when you’re not well!
- Chicken soup
This is the classic and best option, which provides vitamins, minerals, calories, and protein.
- Salads
Light and refreshing salads can be an excellent option to help you recover quickly.
- Chicken and broccoli with sauce
This takeout food offers a balanced protein and vegetables, perfect when you’re not feeling well.
- Non-creamy soups
When you’re feeling sick, you should go for soups like tomato or vegetable broth, which can be soothing and hydrating.
Check Out 5 Ways to Keep Food Safe
So, if you wish to keep your takeout food safe and sound, there are some tricks you can do!
Minimize the Time Between Pickup and Mealtime
Keep in mind that the longer the food stays outside of heating or cooling elements, the higher the risk of harmful bacteria growth inside your food. In this context, you should eat your meal as soon as you return home. Then, you should refrigerate leftovers immediately after you finish eating them.
Keep the Food According to the Type.
This means you should know which food is best to refrigerate and which you should put in a freezer. Yes, make sure you keep all the food accordingly.
Always Separate Food with Different Temperatures.
Keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold. Also, you can ask the restaurant to package these items separately. For example, if you need to travel for more than 30 minutes, you can ask them to give you insulated coolers to maintain food temperatures.
Remember to Rotate Your Food.
Try to store your leftover takeout food in an airtight container. Then, make sure you label them with the date. You can safely consume these leftovers for two or three days, depending on the type of food. In addition, you should throw out leftovers that are more than 2 days old and any expired foods.
Reheat Your Leftovers Properly
When it’s time to eat your leftovers, you should always reheat them before consuming them. You can do this by reheating your food on the stove, in an oven, or in a microwave.
Wrapping Up
Takeout food can really save the day with its convenient and delicious ways. On the other hand, remember to choose which food you can take out and store it properly. Also, don’t forget that you should get the right takeout food when you’re not feeling well.
Have a great day ahead!
In addition, you can also know interesting facts about pizza. Moreover, you can also get helpful information about What Equipment Would Be Needed For A Donut Shop.
