| Spices are the backbone of any good recipe. Keeping | | | | storage. If you are purchasing bagged spices make an |
| dried spices on hand is a convenient way to always | | | | investment is some small glass jars with lids and label |
| be prepared for cooking. But old spices can leave you | | | | them according to contents.o Mark the date of |
| with a lack luster final dish and you wondering what | | | | purchase next to the freshness date on your spice |
| happened. | | | | containers. This way you will be able to keep track of |
| Here are some simple tips to keep you dried spices at | | | | when you purchased a spice and when it is time to |
| there freshest. | | | | replace your spices. |
| Shelf life of spiceso Ground spices such as salt or | | | | Tips for longer shelf lifeo Never shake a can of spices |
| cinnamon can be kept for up to 3 years.o Whole | | | | overtop a steaming pot. The moisture can enter the |
| spices such as whole cloves can be kept up to 4 | | | | spice container and cause the spices to cake.o |
| years.o Seasoning blends such as Herbs de Provence | | | | Always use a dry measuring spoon to measure |
| can be kept up to 2 years.o Herbs such as rosemary | | | | spices. |
| or thyme can be kept up to 3 years.o Extracts such | | | | Testing for freshnesso Rub a small sprinkling of spices |
| as vanilla extract or almond extract can be kept up to | | | | in between the palms of your hands. If the spices are |
| 4 years. Pure vanilla can be kept indefinitely. | | | | aromatic they are still fresh, if you have no scent of |
| Spice storageo Store spices in tightly sealed | | | | little scent the spices are past there prime.o Look for |
| containers. Most grocery store spices come in small | | | | color. If your spices are still vibrant in color they are still |
| plastic or glass jars with lids that are ideal for spice | | | | good. If they have faded it is time to replace them. |