Did you accidentally make a huge batch of rice noodles? Don’t worry; you can easily store them in the refrigerator or freezer for the next few days or even months.
Cooked rice noodles have a shelf life of six hours at room temperature, three days in the refrigerator, and up to two months in the freezer. You can store them by sprinkling some oil on them and keeping them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
How Long Does Cooked Rice Noodles Last?
Cooked rice noodles go stale after a few days or months depending on how you store them.
For instance, I never put cooked rice noodles at room temperature, as they go bad within five to six hours.
If you want to extend the shelf life of cooked rice noodles, refrigerate or freeze them.
In the refrigerator, they can stay fresh for up to three days, whereas in the freezer, they can stay fresh for up to two months.
Here is a table that quickly summarizes the shelf life of cooked rice noodles as per different storage methods.
| Storage Method | Shelf Life |
| At Room Temperature | Up to six hours |
| Refrigeration | Up to three days |
| Freezing | Up to two months |
How to Store Cooked Rice Noodles?
I used to store my cooked rice noodles the same way I stored other foods. It turns out my method was completely wrong, causing the noodles to clump together and turn into a goop!
Instead, here is what you need to do to store cooked rice noodles and to retain its original texture:
1. If your cooked rice noodles are warm, allow them to cool down to room temperature.
2. Place a foil on a baking tray or plate and spread the rice noodles apart to cool them quickly.
3. Next, rinse the cooked rice noodles with cold water and sprinkle some oil on them. Do not skip this step, unless you want the noodles to stick together!
4. Transfer the cooked rice noodles to an airtight container, and close the lid properly. Then, refrigerate for up to three days!
5. If you want to freeze the rice noodles, transfer them to freezer bags.
6. Remove the air from freezer bags by pressing them gently with your fingers.
7. Then, label the bags with the date of storage to ensure you use the noodles before two months.
Signs That Your Cooked Rice Noodles Have Gone Bad
Before reheating stored rice noodles, I always recommend checking if they are still fresh.
Here are some signs that you should look out for:
- Appearance and Mold Growth: Cooked rice noodles have a beautiful translucent appearance. However, they may develop yellow or dark spots when they go stale. Sometimes, you might even see greenish or black mold growth on the noodles.
- Bad Odor: If your rice noodles give off an unpleasant, rancid odor, it is a clear sign that they have gone bad.
- Slimy Texture: Cooked rice noodles have a chewy texture. If they feel excessively slimy and mushy, discard them immediately.
- Off Taste: Rice noodles are known for their mild, sweet, and nutty flavor. Once they go stale, they might taste acidic and sour.
How to Reheat Cooked Rice Noodles?
There are many ways to reheat cooked rice noodles. I always opt for heating in a microwave, as it’s much quicker and hassle-free.
1. Remove the cooked rice noodles from the refrigerator or freezer.
2. If the noodles are frozen, let them defrost in the refrigerator for 12 hours or overnight.
3. Transfer the cooked rice noodles into a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel or a damp napkin.
4. Microwave the rice noodles for about 20 to 30 seconds.
5. Remove the bowl from the microwave, and you’ll see how moist and fresh your rice noodles taste!
If you don’t have a microwave, you can also reheat the rice noodles on the stove. All you need to do is boil the water in a pot, add the noodles, and heat for about a minute or two. Then, drain the water and serve immediately.
Final Thoughts
Storing cooked rice noodles is straightforward. Simply rinse them with cold water and add some oil to prevent them from sticking.
Related Questions
How long do fresh rice noodles last?
Fresh rice noodles can last for about three to four days in the refrigerator and up to a month in the freezer. However, it is best to use them immediately after purchasing, as refrigeration may alter their texture.
How long do uncooked rice noodles last?
Uncooked rice noodles, if kept in a cool and dry place, can easily remain fresh and safe to use for up to two years.
