Lontong is a rice-based dish steamed in banana leaves until firm. It is commonly served as a side dish for traditional Indonesian meals such as satay, gado-gado, or chicken opor. However, due to its soft texture and high moisture content, lontong spoils easily if not stored properly. Several factors can cause lontong to spoil quickly, including high temperatures, excess humidity, and bacterial contamination from the air or utensils used. 

To keep lontong fresh and edible for a longer period, this is how to store lontong to keep it fresh and last longer: 

1. Let Lontong Cool Completely Before Storing 

After cooking, allow lontong to cool completely before storing it. If stored while still hot, it will generate steam, leading to excess moisture, which can cause spoilage. 

2. Store at Room Temperature for Up to 24 Hours 

If you plan to consume lontong within 24 hours, simply store it at room temperature in an open container to prevent moisture buildup. Avoid sealing lontong in airtight plastic bags, as this can speed up spoilage. However, if storing at room temperature, keep these tips in mind: 

Choose High-Quality Lontong

Make sure the lontong you buy is fresh, not slimy, and has the distinct aroma of steamed rice. 

Let It Air Out

After steaming or purchasing, let lontong sit in open air for a while to release excess heat and dry the surface. This helps prevent mold growth. 

Store in the Right Place

Place lontong in a dry, cool spot away from direct sunlight. Using a rice basket or a ventilated container ensures good air circulation. 

Wrap Properly

Use banana leaves or food-grade paper to wrap lontong, maintaining its moisture while preventing it from drying out too quickly. 

Avoid Stacking

Do not stack lontong too high, as trapped heat can accelerate spoilage. Allow enough airflow around the lontong for better preservation. 

3. Refrigerate for Up to 3 Days 

For longer storage, refrigeration is the best option. Here’s how to store lontong in the fridge: 

Wrap Tightly

Use plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent lontong from drying out or absorbing odors from other foods in the fridge. 

Use an Airtight Container

After wrapping, place lontong in an airtight container to maintain its quality and prevent cross-contamination with other foods. 

Store in the Chiller, Not the Freezer

Place lontong in the refrigerator’s chiller section, where the temperature remains stable and cool enough to slow bacterial growth without altering the lontong’s texture. 

Label with a Date

Write the storage date on the packaging to keep track of freshness. Ideally, lontong stored in the refrigerator should be consumed within 2-3 days to maintain its taste and texture. 

Reheating Instructions

When ready to eat, lontong can be steamed again or microwaved with a bit of water to keep it soft and moist. 

4. Freeze for Longer Shelf Life 

If you need to store lontong for more than three days, freezing is the best option! Follow these steps to freeze lontong properly: 

Cut into Portions

Before freezing, cut lontong into serving-sized portions to make it easier to use later. 

Wrap Tightly

Wrap lontong in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Then, place it in an airtight container or ziplock bag. Be sure to remove as much air as possible from the ziplock bag before sealing to prevent ice crystals from forming, which can affect the texture. 

Store in the Freezer

Place lontong in the freezer, where it can last for up to 1-2 months while maintaining its quality. 

Thaw Naturally

When ready to eat, remove lontong from the freezer and let it thaw naturally at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Avoid thawing with hot water, as this can make lontong mushy and alter its texture. 

Reheat Before Serving

After thawing, steam lontong briefly to restore its soft and fresh texture, making it as delicious as freshly made. 

5. Avoid Excess Moisture 

When storing lontong, ensure there is no excess moisture inside the storage container. High humidity can accelerate mold growth and spoil lontong quickly. 

6. Use Fresh Banana Leaves for Storage 

To keep lontong fresh longer, wrap it in fresh banana leaves. Banana leaves have natural antibacterial properties that help slow down the spoiling process. 

Read More : How to Reheat Lontong from the Fridge Easily

Make Your Lontong Dishes Creamier and Healthier with FiberCreme! 

Now that you know how to store lontong properly, you can enjoy it anytime, right? To make it even better, pair it with rich, creamy dishes like opor, curry, or lodeh! 

Worried about indulging in creamy foods? No worries! FiberCreme is here as a high-fiber, low-sugar, and 0mg cholesterol alternative to coconut milk. So you can enjoy all these delicious dishes without guilt. 

Find the perfect recipes to serve with lontong at @FiberCreme_TV or Ellenka’s YouTube channel!