A small amount of hot food can be placed directly in the refrigerator. However, larger amounts should be rapidly chilled in an ice or cold water bath before refrigeration to prevent your refrigerator temperature from rising.
Large pots of food, such as soups and stews, should be divided into small portions and placed in shallow containers before being refrigerated. Likewise, large meat cuts and whole poultry should be divided into small portions, wrapped and placed in shallow containers before refrigerating.