Spices and Kitchen HacksImage Credit source: Getty Images
Rainy season has been prevailing in many states of the country for some time now. In such situations, spices often start spoiling quickly. The biggest reason for this is increased humidity i.e. moisture in the air. When the spices come in contact with excessive moisture, they may become damp, they start sticking together and their aroma and taste also gradually reduces. In some cases, the risk of mold or small insects in the spices may also increase. This is why during monsoon, spices need to be stored more carefully than during normal days.
spices Works to enhance the taste and aroma of any food. If they are not stored properly, their quality can deteriorate quickly and the taste of the food can also be affected. Although the effect of moisture is not the same on every spice, special attention should be paid to the care of almost all the spices during monsoon. In such a situation, it is important to know what should be done to protect the spices from moisture during the rainy season and what mistakes should be avoided while storing them.
Adopt these kitchen hacks to protect spices from moisture during monsoon.
During the rainy season, always keep spices in airtight containers, so that moisture does not reach them. Always use a dry and clean spoon while taking out spices. Keep spice boxes away from gas stove, sink or any place where there is excessive contact with steam or water. If there are whole spices, exposing them to light sunlight from time to time can help in reducing the moisture in them.
If needed, food-grade silica gel packs or moisture-absorbing packs can also be used, but they should not have direct contact with the spices. Buy spices in small quantities, so that they do not spoil if stored for a long time. When stored properly, the taste, aroma and quality of spices can be retained for a long time.
What mistakes should be avoided while storing spices in monsoon?
Do not make the mistake of keeping spices in an open container or without a lid. Taking out spices with wet hands or a wet spoon can cause them to become moist. Also avoid keeping spices in the refrigerator, because when taken out, moisture may accumulate in them due to change in temperature.
Do not keep them directly above the gas or in a place exposed to sunlight and heat. Mixing old and new spices in the same container can also affect their quality.
Which signs of spice spoilage should not be ignored?
If the spices do not smell as strong as before, their color changes, they start sticking together or they feel damp, then it can be a sign of their spoilage. Apart from this, such spices should not be used if there is mold, small insects or unusual smell.
Bad spices can spoil the taste of food as well as affect health. Therefore, if such signs are seen, it is better to change the spices immediately.
