Cooked sprouts should not be stored in clay pots for long-term storage due to the risk of bacterial growth and potential spoilage. Refrigeration is the recommended method for storing cooked sprouts.
While clay pots can offer some benefits for storing certain foods, they are not ideal for cooked sprouts. Clay pots are porous, meaning they allow air and moisture to pass through. This can create an environment conducive to bacterial growth, especially for cooked sprouts which are already susceptible to spoilage. Cooked sprouts contain moisture and nutrients that bacteria thrive on. Storing them in a clay pot at room temperature or even in a cool environment without proper refrigeration significantly increases the risk of foodborne illness. The best way to store cooked sprouts is to cool them quickly after cooking and then refrigerate them in an airtight container. This will help to slow down bacterial growth and keep them safe to eat for a few days.
To extend the shelf life of cooked sprouts, cool them rapidly by spreading them out on a baking sheet before refrigerating. This prevents them from steaming and becoming soggy, which can accelerate spoilage.