How to Reheat & Revive Your Leftovers the Right Way

Sometimes you can’t believe you ate the whole thing. Other times, the simple thought of gulping down one more bite of that gigantic porterhouse can feel like scaling Everest. Sure you could reach the summit, but it’s hardly worth the pain. Moments like these call for a sherpa, a guiding hand to help you make the most of your experience, safely, without sacrificing an ounce of satisfaction. And when it comes to devouring every last bite of your favorite meal’s leftovers the right way, we are the guide you’ve been searching for.

Rule of thumb states that for best results you should reheat your leftovers as closely to their original cooking method as possible. That said, subtle differences exist in preparing leftovers versus their fresh counterparts. Use this primer to make the most of your leftovers every time.

Steaks & Other Proteins

You really have two options with proteins.

1. Warm your steak (or whatever protein you’re dealing with) in an oven until its center reaches approximately 110 degrees. Then remove it from the oven and sear the exterior in a sauté pan over high heat. Think of this method as a reverse sear-roast.

2. Skip the oven altogether. Chop your leftover protein into fork-able chunks. Sauté the meat with a touch of oil for roughly 4-5 minutes (or until the meat is warm throughout).

Flatbreads & Pizza

You’re thinking this is a no-brainer. Well, hot shot, you’re right… But you’re also a little wrong too. If you have a number of leftover pizza slices or portions of flatbread, then yes, go ahead and reheat them in your oven at about 350 degrees for about 10 minutes.

However, single slices and/or individual flatbreads are a different story. The best method for small servings of this food is to heat your portion, dough side down, in a skillet over medium heat. Keep the cover on for about 3-4 minutes. Uncover it for 2-3 additional minutes, or until the crust crisps to perfection.

Whatever you do… Don’t even think about reheating leftover flatbreads or pizza in a microwave. Just don’t.

Roasted Veggies

Reheating hearty, roasted veggies isn’t necessarily a simple endeavor, assuming you want to do it right. But your oven holds the key to savory success. First, heat it to about 350 degrees. Arrange your veggies on a sheet pan, and cover them with tin foil. Warm them for 10-15 minutes or so (and absolutely no longer than 30). This should result in leftover veggies that are arguably tastier than they were to begin with, thanks to the added caramelization.

Soups& Stews, & Chilis

Slow simmering over medium heat is a surefire way to return your soups and stews, and chilis to their former glory. This method works every time — without a lick of fancy cook work— provided you have a little patience. It’ll take anywhere from 15-30 minutes at least. Just be sure to keep the lid on while these foods reheat to prevent unnecessary evaporation.

Pies

Pie is amazing. Pecan Pie, Pumpkin Pie, Apple Crumble Pie — you name it, we love it. Sure, you can eat your leftover slice cold with a dollop of whipped cream and (probably) walk away satisfied. But it’s easy to achieve a transcendent leftover pie experience, so why settle? Simply heat your oven to about 200 degrees, then warm you pie for a solid 20 minutes. You’re ready to dig in when it’s warm throughout.

There you have it. Where’s there’s amazing food, there’s bound to be leftovers. Use the tips above next time you take on the traces of last night’s meal, and dine happy!

Sources:
Bon Appetit
The Kitchn
Yahoo