All About Korean rice cakes
Your complete guide to korean rice cakes - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Korean rice cakes Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for korean rice cakes in different conditions.
Safety first: This guide provides general information. When in doubt, throw it out! Trust your senses and err on the side of caution. If something smells, looks, or tastes off, don't consume it.
Unopened Shelf-Stable PackageUp to 6-12 months (check best-by date on package)
Signs of Spoilage
Puffed-up or swollen package, visible mold inside the package, strong sour or alcoholic odor upon opening, slimy texture even before cooking.
How to Check
Visually inspect the package for any swelling or leaks. Check the best-by or expiration date. Upon opening, immediately sniff for any off-odors (sour, fermented, yeasty). Look closely for any discoloration or mold spots (white, green, pink, black).
Storage Tips
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. While shelf-stable, some people opt to refrigerate them to potentially extend freshness slightly, but it's not strictly necessary until opened. Once opened, always transfer to refrigeration.
Unopened Refrigerated Package1-2 months (check best-by date on package)
Signs of Spoilage
Puffed-up or swollen package, visible mold inside the package, strong sour or alcoholic odor upon opening, slimy texture even before cooking.
How to Check
Visually inspect the package for any swelling or leaks. Check the best-by or expiration date. Upon opening, immediately sniff for any off-odors (sour, fermented, yeasty). Look closely for any discoloration or mold spots (white, green, pink, black).
Storage Tips
Always keep refrigerated. These typically have a shorter shelf life than shelf-stable varieties due to less processing. Freezing is an excellent option for longer storage.
Opened Package in Fridge3-7 days
Signs of Spoilage
Hardened or dried-out texture, development of a sticky or slimy film on the surface, strong sour, yeasty, or unpleasant odor, visible mold (white, green, black, or pink spots).
How to Check
Visual inspection for mold or discoloration. Touch test for sliminess or excessive stickiness. Smell test for any sour, fermented, or off-putting odors. If they feel excessively hard and brittle, they might just be dried out, but if accompanied by other signs, discard.
Storage Tips
Transfer opened rice cakes to an airtight container or a sealed plastic bag. This prevents them from drying out, absorbing odors, and slows down spoilage. If they dry out slightly, they can sometimes be rehydrated by soaking in warm water for 10-15 minutes before cooking, but discard if any spoilage signs are present.
Frozen (Uncooked)3-6 months (quality may degrade after this, but still safe)
Signs of Spoilage
Severe freezer burn (excessive ice crystals, dry, tough, or discolored spots on the rice cakes) indicating loss of quality, though spoilage is rare in a properly frozen state. Texture may become crumbly or mushy after thawing if frozen improperly or for too long.
How to Check
Visually inspect for significant freezer burn. After thawing, check for any unusual odors or textures before cooking. If they smell fine and look okay after thawing, they are generally safe to eat, though texture might be slightly altered.
Storage Tips
To freeze, it's best to lightly coat rice cakes with a thin layer of sesame oil (to prevent sticking) or freeze them individually on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper until firm, then transfer to an airtight freezer-safe bag or container. This prevents them from clumping together. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or soak in cold water for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking. Do not refreeze once thawed.
Cooked Leftovers in Fridge3-4 days
Signs of Spoilage
Sour, fermented, or off-odor from the dish, visible mold (any color), slimy texture on the rice cakes or in the sauce, discoloration of the food.
How to Check
Smell test for any unpleasant odors. Visual inspection for mold, discoloration, or sliminess in the dish. Check the texture of the rice cakes – if they are unusually mushy, hard, or the sauce has an odd consistency.
Storage Tips
Store cooked leftovers promptly in an airtight container in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking. Reheat thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Do not reheat multiple times.