How To Store Dried Herbs

There are certain herbs and spices that work best when dried. Usually when buying dried herbs, they come in larger bags than we may desire, which means we need to attempt storing them in such a way that they will last as long as possible.

It is important to know that dried herbs don’t expire. They do however lose their aroma after about two years and shortly after that the taste will be lost too. The only way to know is to rub some of the dried substance between the fingers and if it still smells like the actual herb, it is still good enough to keep and use in cooking or medicines.

Here are some of the best techniques on how to store dried herbs:

- It is best to store dry herbs and spices in colored glass containers to refrain from any light to damage the goodness of it.

- It isn’t wise to store herbs and spices in plastic bags, if bags are the only means, make use of foil or brown paper bags.

- Keep the herbs and spices out of light, thus they should be stored in a cupboard where direct sunlight or any form of light cannot affect it.

- Keep herbs away from any heat source as it will shorten the lifespan even in dry form.

- Certain seeds, especially seeds like sesame or any other with high oil content, need to be stored in an airtight bottle in the freezer. Otherwise they will go rancid.

- Spices like Paprika, Cayenne Pepper and Chili powder should be kept in the fridge to retain their bright colors.

- Never buy more than what can be used up within a time span of a year.

In general, whole spices will last between 2 to 5 years. Ground spices will last between 6 months and 2 years. Leafy herbs will last between 3 months and 2 years.