Grenadine is a sweet and tangy syrup used to make cocktails like Shirley Temples or Tequila Sunrises.
It can also be used in some sauces for chicken wings or other dishes.
It’s easy to understand how grenadine can be a staple in many households, but how long does it last?
In this blog post, we will be discussing how long grenadine lasts, how to store it properly, and how to tell if your grenadine has gone bad.
How to Use Grenadine?
More and more recipes are using grenadine to add a punch of flavor.
Grenadine syrup is made from pomegranate juice (or other fruit juices) and sugar.
It can be used in mixed drinks like the Tequila Sunrise or even cocktails that are not traditionally sweetened with grenadine, such as the Bloody Mary.
You may also find recipes calling for cherry liqueur where you would normally use grenadine, so if you’re out of one or want to try something different, this substitution works well too.
Grenadine may also refer to the garnish consisting of wedges or balls of candied fruit often put inside the drink for color contrast.
There are two ways in which grenadine can be included in a cocktail: it may either be added directly before serving or when making a mixed drink with ice cubes.
Or one might add some spirit (such as vodka) along with simple syrup —the citrus flavoring will not overpower this mixture because there’s a greater concentration of alcohol.
If you’re making an iced beverage, a good proportion to use is about one tablespoon or so per glass with the liquid of your choice.
This will be enough for two drinks and can be adjusted accordingly depending on how many servings are being made at once.
How to Store Grenadine?
Grenadine is a delicious, tangy drink that can be used both in cocktails or other foods.
But how do you store grenadine?
You may think it’s best to keep the bottles on the fridge door, but for long-term storage and freshness, they should go into your pantry.
Here are some tips about storing grenadine:
- Put them back where you found them – If you don’t see any specific instructions from the manufacturer, then place them in an area of relatively low humidity (not next to fruit), away from light sources, and at room temperature.
- They will stay fresher longer if stored this way.
- Keep refrigerated after opening – After drinking or using the grenadine, you should store it in your fridge or cooler if they’re not already there.
- Away from light sources – If storing them on a shelf away from direct sunlight and other strong lights, such as those coming into the kitchen window, for example, then this will help preserve their color.
- Keep bottles closed tightly once opened – Make sure to have lids tightened onto all of the grenadine containers at all times.
How Long Does Grenadine Last?
Grenadine is one of the most popular mixers for liquor-based drinks.
Grenadine syrup has many different flavors that can range from sweet to tangy, depending on its brand.
The color varies from light pink to bright red depending on the amount of pomegranate juice it contains.
When it comes to how long grenadine lasts, a few factors come into play, such as temperature and storage.
Grenadine syrup is best kept at room temperature or stored in the fridge for later use.
It should not be frozen because this will cause the separation of liquids from solids, affecting its consistency.
A sealed bottle of grenadine should stay fresh for up to 2 years on the shelf but once opened.
It’s only good for six months before you need to replace it with a new bottle.
Homemade grenadine stored at room temperature should be consumed within two weeks for best results.
The sealant helps keep your grenadine safe and sound while also containing any harmful bacteria that might want to contaminate your drink.
Some brands of grenadine syrup come with a plastic screw top.
This is easy access and should be stored in the fridge after use to prolong its shelf life.
How to Tell if Grenadine is Bad?
How many times have you gotten a grenadine drink and wondered, “Do I dare consume this, or is it bad?”.
The liquid is a bright red color, so it’s hard to be sure.
Here are the steps you can take to tell if grenadine syrup has gone bad:
- Check for mold or fungus spores on the surface of the bottle. If there is any sign at all, don’t drink it.
- If the grenadine smells sour, then it’s probably not safe to drink.
- The grenadine color may change if it spoils, too, so keep an eye out for any changes in hue when you’re pouring your cocktail.
- Other signs that indicate spoilage include chunks floating at the top or bottom of the bottle; these could mean mold growth or over-ripening (too much sugar).
A spoiled container will have fruit flies hovering around it – another sign indicates something wrong.
If you’re unsure of the state of your grenadine, it’s best not to take any chances and discard the bottle.
It may be costly at first glance, but spending less on making drinks that taste like fermented garbage is worth avoiding.
How Long Does Grenadine Last? Does Grenadine Go Bad?
Ingredients
- Grenadine
- Air-tight containers or Ziplock bags
- Labels and markers
Instructions
- Read the guide thoroughly to learn how long it lasts.
- Label your container with the content and date and keep track of how much you’re using!
- Make sure to store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place (pantry or fridge).