Lifestyle Desk: Spices play an important role in Indian kitchen. In most homes, food seems incomplete without turmeric, red chilli, coriander powder, cumin, garam masala and other spices. Spices not only enhance the taste of food, but also make its aroma and color special. However, if they are not stored properly, their taste, color and aroma may fade within a short time. Spices can also become lumpy due to exposure to moisture and excessive heat. In such a situation, by adopting some easy storage tips, spices can be kept in better condition for a long time. Let us know the way to store the issues.
Many people keep spice boxes right near the gas stove for convenience. This habit can affect the quality of spices. The heat and steam released during cooking can reach the spices. Therefore, keep the spices away from the stove, oven or any place where there is constant heat. A cool and dry cupboard in the kitchen can be a better place for this.
Moisture is one of the biggest problems for spices. Taking out spices with a wet spoon or keeping the spice container in a steamy place can cause moisture to reach it. Due to this, lumps start forming in the powdered spices. Therefore, always use a dry and clean spoon to take out the masala. After opening the box, it is also important to close it properly.
It is better to store spices in good quality airtight containers in their original packing rather than keeping them open for a long time. This reduces exposure to air and moisture and the aroma of the spices can persist for a long time. Glass or food-grade airtight containers can be used for this.
If you keep different spices in similar containers, it will be useful to write names on them. With this, there will be no need to open the box again and again. Clear containers can also be convenient, but keep them somewhere out of direct sunlight. Too much light can affect the color and quality of some spices.
An easy way to keep spices fresh for a long time is to buy only as per need. Buying powdered spices in large quantities and keeping them for a long time can gradually reduce their aroma and flavor. Therefore, it is a better option to buy spices in small quantities as per the consumption at home.
Keep checking the spices kept in the kitchen from time to time. If a spice's aroma has significantly diminished, its color has changed abnormally, or it shows signs of moisture and spoilage, avoid using it. Instead of mixing old and new spices in the same container, it is better to eliminate the old spices first.
By adopting these small precautions, the aroma, taste and color of spices can be maintained for a long time. Proper storage not only helps in maintaining the quality of spices, but also proves useful in keeping the kitchen organized.
