When it comes to storing dried homemade noodles, there are a few key things to keep in mind to make sure they stay fresh and intact. Proper storage is important for maintaining the texture and flavor of homemade noodles over time. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through the best practices for storing dried noodles you made at home.
Should you refrigerate or freeze dried noodles?
Dried noodles do not require refrigeration or freezing. In fact, it’s best to store them at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Refrigerators tend to be humid environments which can cause dried noodles to get soggy. Freezing them can also negatively impact texture once thawed. As long as your kitchen is not excessively hot, storing noodles in a pantry or cupboard is ideal.
What is the shelf life of dried noodles?
When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, dried noodles can last 6 months to 1 year before quality starts to decline. Refraining from freezing or refrigerating extends their shelf life significantly over fresh noodles. Here are some signs that your dried noodles may no longer be good to eat:
- Texture is overly brittle, mushy or slimy
- Strange odors not present when they were fresh
- Presence of mold
- Significant fading in color
If you notice any of these changes, it’s best to discard the noodles to avoid potential foodborne illness or unpleasant textures.
What is the best container for storing dried noodles?
Look for containers that are:
- Airtight – Lids should fit tightly and seal thoroughly to prevent moisture and pests from getting in.
- Opaque – Light can accelerate food deterioration, so opaque containers are ideal.
- Made of glass, plastic or ceramic – Avoid metallic containers which may impart a metallic taste over time.
- BPA-free plastic – Some chemicals from plastic containers can leach into food, so BPA-free is safest.
Some good options include:
- Glass jars or bottles with tight-fitting lids
- Plastic food storage containers
- Vacuum seal bags
- Ceramic jars
Should you keep noodles in their original packaging?
It’s generally best to repackage dried noodles in an airtight, opaque container rather than store them in their original packaging for longer storage. Reasons to transfer noodles to alternative storage include:
- Original packaging is often not completely sealed or air tight.
- Bags and boxes allow more light exposure.
- Product information printed on packaging can rub off onto the noodles.
- Takes up less space for compact storage.
However, if the original packaging is still intact and will be used within a month or two, it’s fine to leave noodles in their original bag or box.
Should you put dried noodles in the refrigerator after opening?
Unlike many dry goods, dried noodles do not need to be refrigerated after opening. Simply transfer them to an airtight container and keep stored in a cool, dry place at room temperature. The low moisture content and hard texture of dried noodles make it unlikely for mold or bacteria to grow.
Should you break long noodles before storing?
For long shaped noodles like spaghetti, linguine or hand-pulled noodles, it is best to store them intact rather than breaking or cutting the noodles prior to storage. Whole noodles hold up better over time. Breaking them can expose more surface area and accelerate deterioration of texture and flavor. Keep them whole and only cut or portion them out right before cooking.
Should homemade noodles be blanched before drying?
Blanching noodles briefly before dehydrating and storing can help retain brightness in color and firm up the texture to prevent noodles from getting soggy once rehydrated. Blanching involves dipping noodles in boiling water for 15-60 seconds, just until opaque throughout but not fully cooked. Cool briefly in an ice bath, drain thoroughly and pat dry before allowing to air dry completely.
What temperature and humidity is best for stored dried noodles?
Ideally, dried noodles should be stored at cool room temperatures between 55-70°F and in a low humidity environment between 30-50% relative humidity. Warmer temperatures and higher humidity can negatively impact shelf life. Storing in an air conditioned environment when possible is best.
Use a thermometer and hygrometer to monitor temperature and humidity levels if storing noodles long-term. Try to maintain the most constant, cool and dry conditions possible. Avoid attics, garages and basements which can experience greater temperature and humidity fluctuations.
Should you freeze homemade egg noodles?
Freezing is not recommended for dried homemade egg noodles. The frozen moisture and temperature fluctuations during freezing/thawing can negatively impact the texture. Frozen pasta or noodles often develop an ice crystal texture and mushy, gummy consistency.
Instead, opt to fully dry fresh egg noodles very well and then store in an airtight container at room temperature. They will maintain better chewiness and consistency without freezing.
What are the best ways to rehydrate dried noodles?
There are two great methods for rehydrating dried noodles before cooking:
Boiling: Simply boil noodles in lightly salted water for 1-2 minutes until tender and pliable. Drain and add to dishes as desired. Boiling provides even rehydration in a short time.
Soaking: Soak dried noodles in room temperature water for 15-60 minutes before cooking or boiling further. This more gradual rehydration can result in better maintained texture.
Regardless of method, avoid over-soaking noodles which can make them soggy or mushy. Test for desired tenderness periodically while rehydrating.
How do you know if dried noodles have gone bad?
Here are some signs that a package of dried noodles has spoiled and should be discarded:
- Unusual or off odor
- Visible mold growth
- Signs of moisture or sliminess
- Presence of insects/larvae
- Severe discoloration or changes in appearance
- Very brittle or mushy texture after cooking
When in doubt, use your senses or do a cooking test. Safe noodles will smell fresh, not show moisture, and cook up tender yet still pleasantly chewy. Any extreme change in odor, texture or appearance when cooked indicates spoilage. Remember to store noodles properly in an airtight container to avoid them going bad prematurely.
Can you store different types of noodles together?
It’s best practice to store different noodle varieties separately, even if dried, for a few reasons:
- Prevents flavors transferring between strongly scented noodles (like buckwheat)
- Avoids cross-contamination of allergens like wheat or eggs
- Retains textural differences between noodle types
- Allows easier identification and access to specific noodles
However, less aromatic noodles like plain wheat or rice noodles can be combined in storage with minimal downsides. Just be sure they are all thoroughly dried first. Keeping them separate is ideal though for organizational purposes.
Should homemade pasta be stored in the fridge?
Unlike store-bought dried pasta, homemade fresh pasta should always be refrigerated if not being used immediately. The higher moisture content and presence of eggs makes fresh pasta more perishable. Tightly wrap fresh pasta and store in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. For longer storage, homemade pasta can be frozen for 2-3 months.
In contrast, dried homemade pasta can be kept at room temperature like store-bought noodles once fully dried and stored in an airtight container. Never keep fresh homemade pasta unrefrigerated.
What are good storage containers for noodles?
The best containers for storing dried noodles include:
- Glass jars – reusable, airtight, nonporous
- Plastic containers – affordable, lightweight, BPA-free
- Vacuum seal bags – removes air and moisture
- Ceramic jars – attractive storage, keeps noodles dust-free
Avoid bags, boxes or metallic tins which are more porous and provide insufficient protection. Clear glass also allows light exposure, so use opaque containers if possible. Pick containers with tight lids to maintain optimum air and moisture conditions.
How can you extend the shelf life of dried noodles?
To maximize how long dried noodles last, follow these storage tips:
- Store in airtight, opaque containers at room temp
- Keep humidity around 30-50% using dehumidifiers
- Maintain cool temperatures ideally 55-70°F
- Check for pests and discard if insects/larvae found
- Keep away from heat, sunlight and moisture
- Purchase smaller quantities if not using quickly
Proper storage conditions are key for prolonging the shelf life of dried noodles by many months or up to a year past any expiry date on packaging. Date labels indicate peak freshness rather than when a food is unsafe to eat.
Should you store noodles in the pantry or cupboard?
The ideal place to store dried noodles is in a kitchen cupboard or pantry. Benefits include:
- Room temperature conditions
- Keeps noodles accessible for cooking
- Provides protection from light, humidity and pests
- Allows for organization on shelves
- Better temperature stability than garages/attics
When choosing a cupboard, opt for an interior space rather than right next to an exterior wall which can be prone to greater humidity and temperature fluctuations. Keep noodles on higher shelves to minimize moisture exposure.
Conclusion
Storing dried noodles properly is important for preserving homemade freshness and preventing food waste. The ideal conditions include cool, dry storage at room temperature, in an airtight and opaque container. Glass jars, plastic containers and vacuum seal bags are all good options. Avoid freezing, breaking noodles before storage, or combining different noodle varieties. Monitor for signs of spoilage like odor, sliminess or pests. With the right storage methods, dried noodles can maintain quality for many months beyond any expiry date. Follow these tips for keeping homemade or store-bought noodles fresh for longer.