How to Store Spices
Spices are a core ingredient that we always use at home and in our daily cooking. The lack of spices may affect the taste of a dish. Sometimes spices can also influence the taste of cooking due to the quality and expiration date. Here are some ways to extend the lifespan of the spices while maintaining its freshness.
- Store in an Airtight Container
It does not matter if the spice is in powder form or in its original form, just make sure to store it in an airtight container as soon as it is opened.
- Avoid Exposing Spices to Sunlight
Ideally spices should be stored in a dry place to avoid exposing it to sunlight too often as it can lose its aroma, colour and taste.
- Keep Spices Away from Heat
In addition to sunlight, avoid storing spices next to heat sources such as an oven, gas stove and microwave. - Store in The Fridge
This method is very suitable if you buy spices such as chili powder and paprika as storing it in the refrigerator can help to retain its color and freshness. - Store in a Dark Place
Keep it away from sunlight by storing it in a dry dark place such as in kitchen cabinets and drawers.
- Keep Away from Moisture
Avoid exposing spices to damp areas such as the sinks and dishwashers. - Scoop Spices with Dry Utensils
Avoid scooping spices with a wet spoon as the presence of moisture can make the spices mouldy. Discolouration is a clear sign of mouldy spices.
It is widely known that spices are used as ingredients in many Malaysian dishes. Many spices provide our favorite dishes with their distinctive aroma, flavour, and sensation that we’ve known to love.
But do you know that there are other interesting spice benefits that we can get?
Remedies Mild Pain
A wide range of spices are used as ingredients to improve the taste of a particular dish. But it has also been used among many people to alleviate mild discomfort or pain.
Although there are not enough studies to prove its effectiveness, the older generation has been using spices as remedies for many illnesses. However, it is proven that one of the spice benefits is that it can soothe many kinds of mild pain or discomfort that you might experience.
For example, you can chew star anise to soothe a mild toothache. Gingers can also be added to your drinks if you’re looking to relieve flatulence that causes stomach discomfort. Other spices like lemongrass, star anises, or gingers are also added to boiling water for it to exude aromatic steam that can relieve congested nose.
Other relievers of congested nose include consuming a dish with black pepper. Want an easy quick-fix dish for this? Just include MAGGI’s black pepper seasoning powder in any of your favourite recipe and you’re good to go.
Getting Rid of Insects
Other interesting uses of spice include getting rid of insects like ants or house flies. The intense aroma of these spices make them a natural and organic deterrent to these unwanted little critters anywhere around your house. Since they are organic, spices can be a good alternative to pesticides beneficial to the environment.