Throughout history, spices have been thought to have magical powers. Ancient Egyptians believed that spices offered a spiritual connection to the gods, while European explorers sought nutmeg and ginger for their supposed healing properties. But today, these spices are easy to find, which has taken away their mystique. However, they still pack a punch of flavor!
Even if spices are more readily available than they were in the beginning, there are still right and wrong ways to buy and store them. This blog post will share crucial information on the top mistakes to avoid concerning your spices.
Spice Buying and Storing Mistakes You Should Avoid
1 – Buying Too Much
When you find a spice you love, it can be tempting to buy a large quantity of it. You may believe that even if you don’t use it often, the spice will keep for a long time. But this is far from the truth. For example, ground turmeric will only last one year. Ground curry powder is good for half that time.
Another reason to buy only small quantities of spices is that spices lose their flavor over time. When you buy a small amount, you are more likely to use it up quickly, which means you will always have fresh spices.
2 – Storing Spices Above Your Stove
Heat can cause spices to lose their flavor, so it is best to store them in a cool, dry place. However, storing them above your stove can cause this heat damage. On the other hand, storing them in an oven or microwave can be risky. If they are heated up accidentally, they can create a fire hazard.
The ideal place to store your spices is a dark, cool pantry. If you have the space to accommodate it, you could even invest in an appliance called a spice rack. Typically, these are made of wood. They are perfect for displaying your spices, as well as for storing them for years.
3 – Storing Them With Perishables
The best place to store your spices is a cool, dark area. This can be challenging, as some of your spices will inevitably come into contact with each other. This will cause them to lose their flavor.
Many spices have antioxidants, which reduce the impact of the oxygen in the air. However, this protection is temporary. The antioxidants will eventually become depleted, and the spices will start to lose their flavor.
4 – Not Avoiding Moisture From Getting into Spice Containers
Moisture can also cause spices to lose their flavor. When water enters their containers, they can grow mold and lose their flavor. The best way to prevent this is to store your spices in a cool, dry area.
However, if you live in a space that gets humid, you might want to put your spices in sealed containers rather than placing them out in the open. For example, you could get spice jars with sealable caps.
Conclusion
When you buy your spices, avoid these mistakes to take care of them. That way, you will be able to use them for years to come. You will also be able to enjoy their flavors in your meals.
If you are looking to stock up on your food seasonings, shop at Castle Foods. We are an importer, processor, and purveyor of spices, capsicums, herbs, and aromatics.
