Can You Freeze Pancit And The Best Way To Do It (2024)

Pancit is not just a dish; it's a celebration of Filipino cuisine. Rooted deeply in the culinary traditions of the Philippines, Pancit symbolizes life and health, and it's often enjoyed during special occasions. However, with the hustle and bustle of life, one might wonder: Can you freeze Pancit, and what's the best way to do it?

If you're craving Pancit, check out my delicious and easy recipes for Pancit noodles, perfect for busy weeknight meals or a special gathering with family.

What Is Pancit

Pancit is a name of the dish derived from the Chinese word 'pian i sit', which means "something conveniently cooked". It encompasses avariety of Filipino noodle dishes, each with its own type of noodle and set of ingredients. Depending on the region and the local store's availability, some might opt forPancit Canton(flour stick noodles),Pancit Bihon Guisado(thin rice noodles), Pancit Palabok (thick rice noodles with a savory sauce), or even Pancit Molo (a wonton soup without the noodles but inspired by the concept). Stay tuned for recipes for these in the near future.

From the delicate bihon noodles to the thicker chow mein, each Pancit recipe requires a unique approach, especially when it comes to storage and freezing. Check out my blog article to learn more about the differenttypes of noodles used to make Pancit.

Refrigerating vs. Freezing Pancit: Which Is Better

When you've prepared or received a hearty serving of Pancit, be it Pancit Bihon Guisado with its thin rice noodles or a rich Pancit Canton with flour stick noodles, the question often arises: Should you refrigerate or freeze the leftovers?

Refrigerating

Refrigerating is a quick answer for those planning to consume the Pancit within the next couple of days. As previously mentioned, when stored in an airtight container, Pancit can comfortably last for 2-3 days in the refrigerator. This method retains the freshness of ingredients like snap peas, green beans, and bell peppers. However, the texture of the noodles may soften over time, especially with thin noodles which might become slightly mushy.

Freezing

If you intend to store the Pancit for a longer period, freezing Pancit is the way to go. When properly stored in an airtight freezer bag or sealed container, Pancit can last up to a month or more in the freezer without significant degradation in taste or quality. One crucial point to remember when freezing is to ensure the Pancit has cooled down to room temperature. This prevents the formation of ice crystals which can alter the dish's texture upon reheating.

How To Freeze Pancit

Whether you've made a big batch and want to save some for later or simply love having quick and easy meals on hand, freezing pancit is an excellent option. Here are steps to ensure you can enjoy your leftover pancit for days to come.

Step 1: Choose the Right Container - To begin, make sure you have an airtight freezer bag orsealed containerfor freezing your pancit. Opt for airtight containers or freezer-safe bags that will keep your pancit fresh while preventing any unwanted freezer burn. For those looking for an extra layer of protection, avacuum sealeris a worthy investment.

Step 2: Let It Cool Down - Allow your cooked pancit to cool down completely before transferring it into the freezer containers. This helps retain its texture and prevents condensation from forming within the container.

Step 3: Portion Control - Divide your pancit into individual or family-sized portions depending on how you plan to enjoy it later. This way, you can thaw only what you need without worrying about defrosting more than necessary.

Step 4: Pack It Up! - Fill each container with the desired portion of pancit, leaving some space at the top as liquids tend to expand when frozen. Seal them tightly, ensuring there are no air pockets inside. If your Pancit has a special seasoning or prepared sauce made from ingredients likechicken broth,fish sauce, orsesame oil, it's recommended to freeze it separately in a small bowl. This allows for a more balanced reheating process.

Step 5: Label and Date - Don't forget this crucial step! Grab a marker and label each container with the name "Pancit" along with the date of freezing. Trust us; this will save you from any mystery dishes in your freezer later on!

Step 6: Into The Freezer It Goes! - Place your labeled containers in the coldest part of your freezer where they won't be disturbed by other items shifting around. Allow enough space between them for proper airflow if using multiple containers.

Defrosting Pancit

Defrosting is the initial step to revive your frozen Pancit and prepare it for reheating. Here’s how to do it right:

Refrigerator Thawing:Transfer the Pancit from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight or for several hours. This is the safest method as it ensures the dish remains at a safe temperature throughout the thawing process.

Cold Water Thawing:Place the airtight container or freezer bag containing Pancit in a large pot or sink filled with cold water. Change the water every 30 minutes to ensure continuous thawing. Remember, Pancit thawed this way should be reheated immediately after.

Microwave Thawing:If you're pressed for time, using the microwave's defrost setting can help. However, this method can sometimes make the noodles a bit mushy, so use it sparingly and only if necessary.

Reheating Pancit

Microwave:Place the Pancit on a microwave-safe plate, sprinkle a bit of water to retain moisture, and cover it with another plate or microwave-safe lid. Heat on medium for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally for even warmth.

Stovetop:In a large skillet, add a small amount of vegetable or sesame oil. Add the defrosted Pancit and stir-fry on medium heat. If it appears too dry, sprinkle some warm water or chicken stock to reintroduce moisture.

Steaming:This is especially great for certain types of Pancit like Pancit Palabok or those made with thin noodles. Put the defrosted Pancit on a plate, sprinkle some hot water, and steam in a large pot or steamer until thoroughly heated.

Can You Freeze Pancit? The answer is YES!

Pancit, with its diverse array of noodle dishes, is a beloved element of Filipino cuisine. Its shelf life, dependent on the noodle type and ingredients used, can be significantly extended through proper storage techniques. Whether opting to refrigerate for short-term delight or freeze Pancit for future enjoyment, understanding the best practices ensures that the dish remains as flavorful and appetizing as when first prepared.

In conclusion, freezing Pancit is a convenient way to have this delicious Filipino dish on hand whenever you're craving it. By following the proper steps and taking note of the specific time frames, you can ensure that your frozen Pancit remains fresh and flavorful when thawed and reheated. Whether you choose to freeze Pancit in individual servings or larger portions, make sure to use appropriate containers or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn. Remember, experimentation is key! Feel free to add your own twist by including your favorite ingredients and sauces before freezing. So go ahead, whip up a big batch of pancit, freeze some for later, and enjoy this mouthwatering meal anytime with minimal effort!

Pancit Noodle Recipes

Craving for some Pancit noodles after reading this post? Try these:

What Goes With Pancit

These are my favorite dishes and fan-favorites to serve with Pancit:

How-To Instructions