How Can I Store Spices?

The general rule for storing spices and regardless of the type of spice is: to store them in a dry, dark, cool place and as airtight as possible. Storage in the refrigerator is not suitable because the climate there is humid. An open spice rack next to the stove or spice jars on the extractor hood is also practical when cooking – but unsuitable as a storage location, since a lot of moisture in the form of water vapor is also produced here. Cupboards or drawers are better suited for storing spices: Here you can keep spices dry and at the same time protect them from light. Because light destroys their nutrients and has a negative effect on the taste. It is, therefore, best to buy spices in bags or cans, as you have no way of knowing how long spices in jars have been exposed to light in the supermarket.

Extra reading tip: We will also tell you how to store fresh herbs so that their aromas are preserved for as long as possible. You can also read from what quantity the nutmeg is poisonous.

Store spices correctly – in a jar or a can

To ensure that the valuable ingredients retain their taste and flavor, store each individual spice in a separate container that is as airtight as possible. So don’t just close the open bags loosely and store them together in a basket. Otherwise, the flavors rub off on each other – and later you will end up with a Babylonian tangle of spices. Even if you shouldn’t reach for the spice jar in the supermarket: At home, you can decant spices into jars and screw them on tightly if you then store them in the cupboard or drawer. Glass has the advantage that it does not absorb any taste and is airtight. Tinplate cans are also suitable for storing spices in light and airtight manner. Paper bags, on the other hand, absorb moisture easily and also allow other odors to penetrate. So refill the contents at home if you have decided to buy spice sachets. With a view to the shelf life of spices, use the best-before date printed on them as a guide. In general, ground spices and spice mixtures such as harissa only remain fresh for a few weeks when opened. Therefore, only buy spices in quantities that you can use up soon.

Organization tip – storing spices made easy: Label your spice containers from the top if you store them in a drawer. So you can quickly find what you are looking for without much rummaging. Also, go through your stash regularly and discard what no longer has enough flavor.