How can I quickly cool down my leftovers?

How can I quickly cool down my leftovers?

You can spread the leftovers in a shallow container to increase the surface area, which helps them cool faster.

Is it safe to put hot food directly in the fridge?

It's best to let hot food cool slightly before refrigerating to avoid raising the fridge temperature, but you can refrigerate it if needed.

What about using ice water to cool them down?

Yes, placing the container in an ice water bath can rapidly cool down your leftovers. Just make sure the food is in a sealed container.

How long should I leave them in the ice water?

Typically, 20-30 minutes should be enough to cool them down significantly.

Any other tips for cooling food quickly?

You can also use a fan to circulate air around the food or divide large portions into smaller ones to speed up cooling.