Storing spices in the kitchen: time frames, DIY ideas

How to properly store spices

After purchasing the spice, it is best to pour the contents of the package into a more suitable container. If the seasoning is purchased as a reserve, then it is better to leave the contents in the original packaging, but if the package is already open, then it is better to pour it into another container, since in an open package the seasoning will lose the richness of taste and aroma.

What is the best way to store spices? It is not recommended to store spices in open and transparent containers - not only air, but also light can harm the product. The best option for storing spices is a tin jar. It is important that the jar closes tightly. It is in such a container that the seasoning will be protected from light and air. And most importantly - from foreign odors, of which there are a great many in our kitchen. And if the container is not closed tightly, then foreign odors can interrupt the aroma of the seasoning. Also, a tin can will protect the seasoning from heat in hot weather, which can also have a detrimental effect on the product.

If there is no tin can, you can choose any other container, but it is important to observe two key conditions:

The container for storing spices should be opaque so that the seasoning is not exposed to light.
The container should be tightly closed so that the seasoning is not exposed to air and odors.

General rules for storing seasonings

Since food is prepared in the kitchen, you have to store aromatic products there so that they are always at hand. But the specific location of their location is determined by the cook, based on his taste. Conditions for better preservation of seasonings have been known for many centuries.

Modern housewives should know and follow them.

The storage location should be dark and cool. Don't forget that spices can be stored in the pantry. After all, it’s cool, dry, dark there. The main thing is that the room is equipped with forced ventilation.
It is better to purchase whole spices and grind them as needed. The crushed product retains its specific taste much less than whole samples.
Each spice additive should be stored where it will feel comfortable. For example, sesame seeds last longer in the freezer, while red pepper and paprika last longer in the refrigerator door.
Even slight humidity leads to dampening of the product and loss of its taste. Therefore, spices are taken out of containers only with a dry spoon and do not hold the container over the steam from the cooking dish.
The bay leaf does not allow the bugs to multiply; small bay leaves are placed in all containers.
There are no containers placed above the stove, because aromatic foods immediately absorb foreign odors and moisture.
Each bulk product is stored separately so that odors do not mix.

Where to store spices

So, with the container for storing spices, everything is more or less clear. Now the question arises - where exactly to store spices. If the storage container is opaque and hermetically sealed, then this issue is not so important. However, if the storage container leaves much to be desired, or the spice is stored in its original packaging, then it is important in this case to choose a more favorable storage location. It is unacceptable to store spices simply on the table or on a surface accessible to light.

The best option for storing spices would be the place furthest from heat sources and inaccessible to light, since light and excessive heat can damage the product. The best places to store spices are:

A tightly closing buffet or kitchen cabinet.
Fridge.
Pantry.

It is important to note that it is better to store spices away from sources of pungent and strong odors. Therefore, if anything emitting a pungent, pungent odor is stored in the pantry or refrigerator, then it is better not to store spices in such a place. The best option would be to allocate a separate kitchen cabinet for spices.

You should carefully consider the issue of storing spices so as not to spoil the product by improper storage, and when added to food, you will be able to experience the full spectrum of taste and aroma of a particular seasoning. Also pay attention to the expiration date of the product. Spices are often used irregularly, and therefore the purchased seasoning can be stored for a very long time, so before use you should check the validity of the expiration date.

Storage of bulk products

But if you still want to buy a tin one, nowadays they look more modern than in Soviet times from grandmothers. These jars are well suited for storing cereals such as buckwheat, pasta, peas, and beans, since they are not so airtight.

Sealed glass jars will preserve food

Glass or plastic are good for salt, sugar and flour. Storage of products in special jars should be in a place where there is no direct sunlight, heat from electrical appliances or moisture.

Even in a glass jar will not protect cereals from direct sunlight

If these rules are not followed, supplies may spoil ahead of time.

Glass jars or plastic containers will replace any packaging

Ideas

There are a lot of ideas on how to store spices in the heart of the home - in the kitchen. For this purpose, special systems have been developed that are original and even act as part of the kitchen interior. There are simple ways, but no less convenient. Proper, interesting storage will not only simplify cooking, but also create a cozy atmosphere in the kitchen area and save space.

8 interesting ideas on how you can organize the storage of spices at home:

You can store whole and bulk seasonings in jars with tight-fitting lids. They can be made of different materials, be of different shapes, transparent or colored. You don’t have to buy containers, but give a second life to cans of coffee and baby food - the best option. Some housewives use jars of cream, rinsing them thoroughly. Containers can be placed in a cabinet, having a separate section for them. If the containers are opaque, then you can set aside an open shelf for them.

A mobile organizer with special holes for installing jars is a convenient thing. It can be fixed on the wall, placed on a table or attached to the cabinet door from the inside, if space allows.
If the housewife stocks up on a small amount of spices, complaining about their short shelf life, then you can take note of storing them in small test tubes. In stores they are sold together with a convenient stand.
Railing is a popular system that is attached to the work surface.

Some kitchen sets are equipped with a special module for storing spices. It is presented in the form of a small pull-out rack with numerous shelves. There are more modest options - a built-in drawer with inclined compartments.
A very interesting idea - small jars with magnets attached to a magnetic surface. This idea can become the basis of a kitchen interior.
You can place packets of seasonings in a special beautiful stand or make a box with your own hands; even a tea box that can be put away in a closet will come in handy. You can make or buy special pockets for storing spice bags and fix them on the inside of the cabinet door.
Manufacturers do not stand still. On the shelves of a home goods store you can see interesting devices in the form of a “Ferris wheel” or “carousel”, which rotate, allowing you to take the necessary jar.

The housewife herself can come up with a system for storing spices, making it with her own hands. You can use simple jars and boxes and paint them with acrylic paints. If the husband is an expert in wood carving, he can make carved boxes with lids. If you use your imagination, the “keepers” of seasonings can not only be useful, but also become part of the harmony in the interior. Even the presented photos reflect the zest of various storage systems.

Attention! You can store cereals at home in a similar way.

Spicy additives can make a dish incredibly tasty, but at the same time they can ruin it if you do not store them responsibly. Any self-respecting housewife should know how to store spices in the kitchen. It is better to throw away spoiled spices immediately.

Containers for spices

Glass and ceramic containers are considered the most suitable for storing aromatic spices and seasonings . Firstly, they are reusable, easy to clean and have an aesthetic appearance. You can even match the containers to your kitchen design. Secondly, thanks to the rubber nozzles on the lid of such containers, air does not get , and they are stored longer.

Spices are a mega-useful thing not only in cooking, but also in the household. For example, even expired spices can be useful to you when cleaning your house or garden. The aromatic properties of these additives are the main thing that housewives value. Follow our tips and keep your herbs and spices in their original condition!

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