Spices have a great history in ancient India as they played a crucial role in terms of culture, and cuisine. India is known as the land of spices like turmeric, coriander, black pepper, clove, cardamom, cinnamon and more are the most used spices in Indian households. They have the greatest medicinal properties that are being used to heal people. Spices give taste and flavour and of course, add health benefits to the food you eat. The aroma of the spices gives your mind relaxation. Hence, they are the most important part of the kitchen. Spices are used in almost every dish to enhance the taste, flavour and aroma.
An Indian kitchen is incomplete without a box of different spices. But, picking the best and fresh spices you need to choose a trusted source. Shiva Organic offers high-quality and authentic spices such as Himalayan Yellow Chilli Powder. Gradually, the trade of spices attracted exporters and traders from all over the world. When kept open for a long time, it gets clumped due to moisture becoming colourless and flavourless. Whereas, when they are well-maintained they are capable of remaining fresh for about two to three years. Dry spices don't get spoiled easily. Hence, proper storage is very important to preserve the freshness and flavour of the spices. Use a dry and airtight container - When storing the spices, make sure the container is dry and airtight because that will keep away the moisture. Keep the lid tight to avoid any moisture absorption.
Following are the tips for spice storage for a long time -
Store in an airtight container - To maintain the freshness and potency of your spices, store them in airtight containers. This prevents moisture, air and light from degrading their flavour and aroma. overtime. Keep the container in a cool, dry and dark place as exposure to heat can turn spices less effective. Less exposure to air and light preserves the species' freshness and taste.
Stay away from direct sunlight - Direct sunlight is considered to be harmful to spices that you store in the kitchen. It can change the taste and flavour of the spices. Whatever container you are using, whether a plastic or metal one, make sure the lids are intact. Because a loose lid can allow harmful sunlight to degrade the quality of the spices in terms of dullness, and colour, Try storing them in cupboards for better results.
Keep spices in a cool place - Spices are hot by nature and are used in spicy food and because of the constant heart, they need to be stored in a cool place. Hence, spices need a cool environment to stay fresh for a longer time. Therefore, choose a place away from heat and look for a naturally cool place to store them to preserve them better.
Keep the moisture away from spices - Moisture can entirely ruin the whole texture, flavour, taste and flow of the spices. Make sure the spoon you are using is completely dry and clean before you dig in. Also, direct heat from the flame may cause quick degradation of the spices. A regular contact with steam due to the flame.
Check the packaging date - It is mandatory to check the manufacturing and expiry date of the spices that you purchase. If in any case, you purchase an expired package try to decline and not consume. It can damage your health unknowingly. Hence, keep track of what you need. You can check the package if there are any tears or damage to avoid further health hazards and of course waste of time and money.
Keep it away from strong odours - Spices tend to absorb strong odours if there are any food items kept nearby such as coffee, onions, or garlic. Try to categorise and store in different compartments to avoid any contact. The reason is you are ultimately going to consume. If you use spices in such conditions it can ruin the food taste and quality that you don’t want for sure.
Conclusively. to increase the shelf-life of spices It is important to track the shelf-life of the spices as they have about one to two years of duration. All the spices have a specific duration of being fresh and fine. And, after that, the spices started losing their authentic taste. Hence, if the spices no longer give the same aroma, colour and flavour that says you should discard their spice. Shiva Organic Himalayan Spices are the best quality and organic spices you can have to enhance your food with a great taste, flavor and aroma.