Here's How Long Leftover Sticky Rice Will Last In The Fridge Or Freezer

Also known as sweet rice or glutinous rice (although there's no gluten in it whatsoever, like all rice), sticky rice is known for its chewy texture and glue-like consistency when cooked — in fact, sticky rice flour was once mixed with lime and water to create a strong composite mortar that was used as a building material for the Great Wall of China, notes Smithsonian Magazine. It comes in several different varieties, including Thai long grain, Japanese short grain, black, and purple.

Sticky rice is most commonly used in Asian dishes, both sweet and savory. It's an integral part of the classic Thai mango sticky rice dessert, as well as the Eight Treasure rice pudding that's typically enjoyed by families during the Lunar New Year. It's found in dumplings, rice cakes, mochi, and can be enjoyed as a complement to numerous Asia main dishes. Given its many uses, you might have tried making some sticky rice and ended up with more than you could eat in one sitting. Or you ordered takeout and have some leftovers, and are wondering how long you can store it.

When stored properly, sticky rice will last for four to five days in the fridge. Since it can dry out quickly, it's best to wrap it tightly and store it in an airtight container. You can also freeze sticky rice for up to two months. Wrap it tightly and store it in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. As with all rice dishes, you want to cool the sticky rice as quickly as possible before storing it in the fridge or freezer.

When it's time to reheat the sticky rice, use a steamer if you can for the best results (much like a steamer is the best way to cook sticky rice to begin with). You can also reheat sticky rice in the microwave, though you should add some water or place a wet paper towel on top. You can also use a rice cooker, instant pot, or the oven for reheating sticky rice, though you're more likely to end up drying it out in the oven than with any other method.