How long do fermented black beans keep?

[blkery]

I have a vaccum sealed pack of fermented black beans that I was about to use for a stirfry today until I realized that I had bought them two years ago (not sure how long they were on the shelf before that). I assume it's probably safe to eat them, but how long do these things really last?

[limebasil]

FOREVER, until you use them up, then there is a replacement problem. But if you have the, they are yours until you exhaust them.

[lschow]

haha "they will outlast you" - so true! i have no idea how long i've had my bag. i only break them out when making spare ribs with black bean sauce around chinese new year.

btw, i keep mine in the freezer for extra safe keeping.

[scubadoo97]

Even though they may not spoil they make pick up off flavors from the pantry

[fourunder]

Whenever I find a nice glass jar from a previous purchase.....like a jelly jar or my new current favorite, small 10 oz. Polar Fruit Jars. I save them for future storage of items just like fermented black beans. A tight closing lid handles any odors from gaining or omitting in or out. Solves the problem very easily......

http://www.bizrate.com/polar-mixed-fr...

[ipsedixit]

It will probably outlast you.

[scubadoo97]

for ever. They are already fermented. No really, they are so salty there is little that will grow on them.

[bushwickgirl]

What they said, I also have a vacuum sealed pack, 1.5 years old, with no signs of deteriation.
"but my guess is they will outlast you"-that sums it up.

[fourunder]

I would say until you see signs of visual mold......but my guess is they will outlast you. I would have no problem using them.