To store leftover cooked pork belly, it is important to follow proper food safety guidelines to maintain its quality and prevent any potential health risks. Here are some steps you can take:
1. **Cooling**: Allow the cooked pork belly to cool down completely before storing it. Leaving it at room temperature for more than two hours can promote bacterial growth.
2. **Packaging**: Transfer the cooled pork belly into an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help prevent air exposure and keep the meat moist.
3. **Refrigeration**: Place the packaged pork belly in the refrigerator as soon as possible after cooking, ideally within two hours of preparation. It should be stored at a temperature below 40°F (4°C) to slow down bacterial growth.
4. **Labeling**: To ensure you know when it was prepared, label the container with the date of storage using a marker or sticker.
5. **Shelf Life**: Cooked pork belly can typically be stored in the refrigerator for up to three to four days without significant loss of quality or taste.
6. **Freezing (optional)**: If you want to extend its shelf life further, you can freeze cooked pork belly for up to three months by placing it in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag with all excess air removed.
Remember that these guidelines are general recommendations and may vary depending on factors such as your refrigerator's temperature consistency and overall food handling practices.