Overview Cloves are dried, unopened flower buds that are indigenous to East Africa and Indonesia. Cloves are one of the earliest spices to reach the European continent. Its strong, aromatic and sweet flavour is a must have spice in every kitchen. Common Uses Cloves are paired with game meats as it cuts through the wild taste. Stewed fruits are also elevated by adding a few cloves into the pot while it simmers. In India, fragrant pilafs are created with the addition of cloves to the cookpot. Ground cloves and ground cinnamon are used in baked items such as fruit pies, pumpkin squash and sweet potato dishes. It enhances the flavour or apples in pies and crumbles. Cloves are also used as a pickling spice. Recommended Storage The most important point is that dried herbs and spices can never go bad if they are kept dry. Yes, the potency is lost, but it will still influence the flavor of your cooking. Seeds, roots, leaves and flowers last longer than crushed or ground herbs and spices. When you are preparing to store your dry herbs and spices it is vital that they are completely dry. A good indication is to rub it with your finger to check if it crumbles. As oxygen degrades dried herbs and spices over time, you should store them in airtight containers. Glass jars with sealable lids are perfect, and so are metal tins. Plastic won't do for long terms storage. Sunlight also degrades dried herbs and spices; therefore, it should be stored in a dark cabinet that is both cool and dry. If your spice rack is near the stove or cooker, steam will degrade your herbs and spices each time you open the container while cooking. When buying in bulk, you should always store only some of the dried herbs and spices in a glass or metal container. Each time you open it, it is exposed to the elements. When buying in bulk it is useful to label your containers with the purchase date and discard date.
Overview White beans also known as white navy beans are loaded with antioxidants and carry extraordinary health benefits. They are a great source of fibre and a perfect substitute for protein. Common Uses White beans can be used to add protein to dishes. Vegetarians often use these legumes in stews. Mexican food is an example where beans are used in all sorts of cooking. In the Middle East, white beans are used in tomato stews. White bean paste is also produced, which is used in smoothies. Recommended Storage The most important point is that dried herbs and spices can never go bad if they are kept dry. Yes, the potency is lost, but it will still influence the flavor of your cooking. Seeds, roots, leaves and flowers last longer than crushed or ground herbs and spices. When you are preparing to store your dry herbs and spices it is vital that they are completely dry. A good indication is to rub it with your finger to check if it crumbles. As oxygen degrades dried herbs and spices over time, you should store them in airtight containers. Glass jars with sealable lids are perfect, and so are metal tins. Plastic won't do for long terms storage. Sunlight also degrades dried herbs and spices; therefore, it should be stored in a dark cabinet that is both cool and dry. If your spice rack is near the stove or cooker, steam will degrade your herbs and spices each time you open the container while cooking. When buying in bulk, you should always store only some of the dried herbs and spices in a glass or metal container. Each time you open it, it is exposed to the elements. When buying in bulk it is useful to label your containers with the purchase date and discard date.
Overview Lemon Grass is an herb that has a pungent citrus flavour hence why it is called lemon grass. It is widely used in Asian cuisine and for medicinal purposes worldwide. It is also most commonly used in teas and the dry form, whether powder or pieces is easy to store for daily or occasional use. Common Uses In its dry form, it is used for meat rubs. It gives exceptional depth to curries and stews and is very popular in dishes that come from the Asian Continent. Using lemon grass with poultry, meat, fish and seafood adds acidity to the flavours. In African countries, it is mostly used as tea. The oil extracts are used as a preservative of foods. Recommended Storage The most important point is that dried herbs and spices can never go bad if they are kept dry. Yes, the potency is lost, but it will still influence the flavor of your cooking. Seeds, roots, leaves and flowers last longer than crushed or ground herbs and spices. When you are preparing to store your dry herbs and spices it is vital that they are completely dry. A good indication is to rub it with your finger to check if it crumbles. As oxygen degrades dried herbs and spices over time, you should store them in airtight containers. Glass jars with sealable lids are perfect, and so are metal tins. Plastic won't do for long terms storage. Sunlight also degrades dried herbs and spices; therefore, it should be stored in a dark cabinet that is both cool and dry. If your spice rack is near the stove or cooker, steam will degrade your herbs and spices each time you open the container while cooking. When buying in bulk, you should always store only some of the dried herbs and spices in a glass or metal container. Each time you open it, it is exposed to the elements. When buying in bulk it is useful to label your containers with the purchase date and discard date.
Overview Mint is one of the most valued and versatile herbs. Its sweet and strong aroma and flavour is the star in many sauces, desserts and spice rubs. It is one of the most popular herbal tea herbs, and its essential oils are highly valuable. Common Uses Spearmint is used in mint sauces that are available worldwide. Mint sauces accompany lamb dishes extremely well. Wines are also flavoured with mint specifically peppermint. Many desserts require peppermint to make them perfect. This includes chocolate, orange and ice cream desserts. Both spearmint and peppermint add refreshing tastes to casseroles, stews, salads and cooked vegetables. Mint is also used in chutneys. Recommended Storage The most important point is that dried herbs and spices can never go bad if they are kept dry. Yes, the potency is lost, but it will still influence the flavor of your cooking. Seeds, roots, leaves and flowers last longer than crushed or ground herbs and spices. When you are preparing to store your dry herbs and spices it is vital that they are completely dry. A good indication is to rub it with your finger to check if it crumbles. As oxygen degrades dried herbs and spices over time, you should store them in airtight containers. Glass jars with sealable lids are perfect, and so are metal tins. Plastic won't do for long terms storage. Sunlight also degrades dried herbs and spices; therefore, it should be stored in a dark cabinet that is both cool and dry. If your spice rack is near the stove or cooker, steam will degrade your herbs and spices each time you open the container while cooking. When buying in bulk, you should always store only some of the dried herbs and spices in a glass or metal container. Each time you open it, it is exposed to the elements. When buying in bulk it is useful to label your containers with the purchase date and discard date.
Overview Thyme is a perennial plant that is grown and processed throughout the Middle East and Europe. The aromatic and pungent flavour releases is a perfect companion to tomato dishes and of course, meat dishes. It is a vital seasoning ingredient in Creole and French recipes, specifically in dry format. Common Uses Thyme is commonly used to enhance the taste of soups, vinaigrette, bean dishes, grains and tomato sauces. It also enhances corn dishes very well with its distinctive flavour. In the Mediterranean region, thyme is most often used to prepare lamb as it breaks down the gamy flavour of lamb and of course, venison. It is used to flavour cheeses, lentil dishes and elevates egg servings, such as omelettes very well. Recommended Storage The most important point is that dried herbs and spices can never go bad if they are kept dry. Yes, the potency is lost, but it will still influence the flavor of your cooking. Seeds, roots, leaves and flowers last longer than crushed or ground herbs and spices. When you are preparing to store your dry herbs and spices it is vital that they are completely dry. A good indication is to rub it with your finger to check if it crumbles. As oxygen degrades dried herbs and spices over time, you should store them in airtight containers. Glass jars with sealable lids are perfect, and so are metal tins. Plastic won't do for long terms storage. Sunlight also degrades dried herbs and spices; therefore, it should be stored in a dark cabinet that is both cool and dry. If your spice rack is near the stove or cooker, steam will degrade your herbs and spices each time you open the container while cooking. When buying in bulk, you should always store only some of the dried herbs and spices in a glass or metal container. Each time you open it, it is exposed to the elements. When buying in bulk it is useful to label your containers with the purchase date and discard date
Overview The spiky leaves of Rosemary are perhaps as old as time. It has been used for flavouring of wines, waters and of course edible dishes too. Hotels often go the rustic route by placing a small bundle of rosemary and lavender on pillows, whereas rustic restaurants stick a handful of rosemary in a tiny pot as table decoration. This evergreen shrub is relatively easy to grow, and it is processed in the Middle East. Common Uses The perfect culinary marriage is lamb and rosemary. Every chef will confess to that. Rosemary is also used to add flavour to chicken dishes, especially stuffing, and its pine like taste is perfect in sausages too. It most definitely elevates vegetable stews, vegetable roasts and tomato dishes. Rosemary is often used in breads and even sweet baked goods. Recommended Storage The most important point is that dried herbs and spices can never go bad if they are kept dry. Yes, the potency is lost, but it will still influence the flavor of your cooking. Seeds, roots, leaves and flowers last longer than crushed or ground herbs and spices. When you are preparing to store your dry herbs and spices it is vital that they are completely dry. A good indication is to rub it with your finger to check if it crumbles. As oxygen degrades dried herbs and spices over time, you should store them in airtight containers. Glass jars with sealable lids are perfect, and so are metal tins. Plastic won't do for long terms storage. Sunlight also degrades dried herbs and spices; therefore, it should be stored in a dark cabinet that is both cool and dry. If your spice rack is near the stove or cooker, steam will degrade your herbs and spices each time you open the container while cooking. When buying in bulk, you should always store only some of the dried herbs and spices in a glass or metal container. Each time you open it, it is exposed to the elements. When buying in bulk it is useful to label your containers with the purchase date and discard date.
Overview The use of parsley has been recorded in history since the Roman times. Since then, until now, it serves as a garnish to almost every savoury dish. It is cultivated worldwide, and although the leaves variate from one region to the next, the taste remains very similar. North Africa and the Middle East are mass processors of parsley in its dry form. Common Uses Parsley in its dry form can be added to mixed herbs spices used in meat rubs, vinaigrettes, bean dishes and vegetable soups. It complements egg dishes, roasted vegetables and herb breads very well. Most Italian dishes are enhanced with parsley in the form of mixed herbs blends. Parsley is often described as the perfect experimental herb as it more commonly adds flavour than overpowers due to its subtle aroma and flavour and can handle long cooking times. Recommended Storage The most important point is that dried herbs and spices can never go bad if they are kept dry. Yes, the potency is lost, but it will still influence the flavor of your cooking. Seeds, roots, leaves and flowers last longer than crushed or ground herbs and spices. When you are preparing to store your dry herbs and spices it is vital that they are completely dry. A good indication is to rub it with your finger to check if it crumbles. As oxygen degrades dried herbs and spices over time, you should store them in airtight containers. Glass jars with sealable lids are perfect, and so are metal tins. Plastic won't do for long terms storage. Sunlight also degrades dried herbs and spices; therefore, it should be stored in a dark cabinet that is both cool and dry. If your spice rack is near the stove or cooker, steam will degrade your herbs and spices each time you open the container while cooking. When buying in bulk, you should always store only some of the dried herbs and spices in a glass or metal container. Each time you open it, it is exposed to the elements. When buying in bulk it is useful to label your containers with the purchase date and discard date.
Overview Basil is a native herb of the Middle East and very widely used in both is region's cuisine as well as Mediterranean dishes. Egypt and Turkey are the main producers and processors of basil. Its strong, pungent taste compliments many dishes, both savoury and sweet, and is a perfect marriage to tomato dishes. Basil is one of the most legendary herbs, sold in large quantities. Common Uses Basil is one of the most widely used herbs and is essential to Mediterranean and Arabic Cuisine. In its dry form, it is perfect in soups, vinaigrettes, grains, marinades, egg dishes and breads. Tomato dishes are taken to a whole new level when dried basil is added. This herb also complements both chicken and meat dishes by adding it to the overall spice mix. A sprinkle of dried basil is a perfect finishing touch to a pasta dish. Recommended Storage The most important point is that dried herbs and spices can never go bad if they are kept dry. Yes, the potency is lost, but it will still influence the flavor of your cooking. Seeds, roots, leaves and flowers last longer than crushed or ground herbs and spices. When you are preparing to store your dry herbs and spices it is vital that they are completely dry. A good indication is to rub it with your finger to check if it crumbles. As oxygen degrades dried herbs and spices over time, you should store them in airtight containers. Glass jars with sealable lids are perfect, and so are metal tins. Plastic won't do for long terms storage. Sunlight also degrades dried herbs and spices; therefore, it should be stored in a dark cabinet that is both cool and dry. If your spice rack is near the stove or cooker, steam will degrade your herbs and spices each time you open the container while cooking. When buying in bulk, you should always store only some of the dried herbs and spices in a glass or metal container. Each time you open it, it is exposed to the elements. When buying in bulk it is useful to label your containers with the purchase date and discard date.
Overview The Henna plant, or Henna tree also known as the Egyptian Privet, is a plant that produces the ingredients of henna. Common Uses Henna is often applied to affected areas of the scalp for those suffering of dandruff. It also adds to the relief of eczema, scabies, fungal infections and minor wounds. Most commonly henna is used in hair dyes, cosmetics and hair care products. Henna is also used in dyes for clothing. In India and the Middle East, it is the main ingredient in temporary tattoos often applied on women before weddings and festivals. Recommended Storage The most important point is that dried herbs and spices can never go bad if they are kept dry. Yes, the potency is lost, but it will still influence the flavor of your cooking. Seeds, roots, leaves and flowers last longer than crushed or ground herbs and spices. When you are preparing to store your dry herbs and spices it is vital that they are completely dry. A good indication is to rub it with your finger to check if it crumbles. As oxygen degrades dried herbs and spices over time, you should store them in airtight containers. Glass jars with sealable lids are perfect, and so are metal tins. Plastic won't do for long terms storage. Sunlight also degrades dried herbs and spices; therefore, it should be stored in a dark cabinet that is both cool and dry. If your spice rack is near the stove or cooker, steam will degrade your herbs and spices each time you open the container while cooking. When buying in bulk, you should always store only some of the dried herbs and spices in a glass or metal container. Each time you open it, it is exposed to the elements. When buying in bulk it is useful to label your containers with the purchase date and discard date
Overview Mint is one of the most valued and versatile herbs. Its sweet and strong aroma and flavour is the star in many sauces, desserts and spice rubs. It is one of the most popular herbal tea herbs, and its essential oils are highly valuable. Common Uses Spearmint is used in mint sauces that are available worldwide. Mint sauces accompany lamb dishes extremely well. Wines are also flavoured with mint specifically peppermint. Many desserts require peppermint to make them perfect. This includes chocolate, orange and ice cream desserts. Both spearmint and peppermint add refreshing tastes to casseroles, stews, salads and cooked vegetables. Mint is also used in chutneys. Recommended Storage The most important point is that dried herbs and spices can never go bad if they are kept dry. Yes, the potency is lost, but it will still influence the flavor of your cooking. Seeds, roots, leaves and flowers last longer than crushed or ground herbs and spices. When you are preparing to store your dry herbs and spices it is vital that they are completely dry. A good indication is to rub it with your finger to check if it crumbles. As oxygen degrades dried herbs and spices over time, you should store them in airtight containers. Glass jars with sealable lids are perfect, and so are metal tins. Plastic won't do for long terms storage. Sunlight also degrades dried herbs and spices; therefore, it should be stored in a dark cabinet that is both cool and dry. If your spice rack is near the stove or cooker, steam will degrade your herbs and spices each time you open the container while cooking. When buying in bulk, you should always store only some of the dried herbs and spices in a glass or metal container. Each time you open it, it is exposed to the elements. When buying in bulk it is useful to label your containers with the purchase date and discard date.
Overview The tropical Hibiscus flower is a very popular item in spice shops all over the Middle East and Europe. It can be used in both sweet and savoury dishes. Hibiscus tea is also very widely enjoyed for both its flavour and health benefits. It can be chilled for a decent, tart drink. Dried hibiscus flowers can also be burnt and used as hair dyes. Common Uses Hibiscus tea is made from a mixture of dried flowers, leaves and the dark red calyces of this plant. In cooking it is used more than a garnish rather than for its flavour. When the dried, red flowers are seeped in boiled water, it releases a dark red colour and a very tart flavour that works well in both teas, cocktails and sauces. Recommended Storage The most important point is that dried herbs and spices can never go bad if they are kept dry. Yes, the potency is lost, but it will still influence the flavor of your cooking. Seeds, roots, leaves and flowers last longer than crushed or ground herbs and spices. When you are preparing to store your dry herbs and spices it is vital that they are completely dry. A good indication is to rub it with your finger to check if it crumbles. As oxygen degrades dried herbs and spices over time, you should store them in airtight containers. Glass jars with sealable lids are perfect, and so are metal tins. Plastic won't do for long terms storage. Sunlight also degrades dried herbs and spices; therefore, it should be stored in a dark cabinet that is both cool and dry. If your spice rack is near the stove or cooker, steam will degrade your herbs and spices each time you open the container while cooking. When buying in bulk, you should always store only some of the dried herbs and spices in a glass or metal container. Each time you open it, it is exposed to the elements. When buying in bulk it is useful to label your containers with the purchase date and discard date
Overview Sage is an herb that pairs excellently with meat dishes. Sage has a musty, aromatic scent and is commonly used in the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern regions. It is an evergreen herb that is available all year round. Cooks prefer sage leaves over ground sage. Common Uses Although it is most often used for meat preparation, this herb is also commonly used in poultry stuffing and as a main ingredient of sausages as it contributes well with fat-rich dishes. One of its benefits is that it gives a meaty flavour to vegetarian dishes. In India especially, cooks use it in rice, soups and grain dishes. Its perfect partner is in pumpkin. In Italy it is chopped and mixed with melted butter, then served stirred into pasta or potato gnocchi. In the Middle East, sage is used in kidney and liver recipes to elevate the flavours of the meat. Recommended Storage The most important point is that dried herbs and spices can never go bad if they are kept dry. Yes, the potency is lost, but it will still influence the flavor of your cooking. Seeds, roots, leaves and flowers last longer than crushed or ground herbs and spices. When you are preparing to store your dry herbs and spices it is vital that they are completely dry. A good indication is to rub it with your finger to check if it crumbles. As oxygen degrades dried herbs and spices over time, you should store them in airtight containers. Glass jars with sealable lids are perfect, and so are metal tins. Plastic won't do for long terms storage. Sunlight also degrades dried herbs and spices; therefore, it should be stored in a dark cabinet that is both cool and dry. If your spice rack is near the stove or cooker, steam will degrade your herbs and spices each time you open the container while cooking. When buying in bulk, you should always store only some of the dried herbs and spices in a glass or metal container. Each time you open it, it is exposed to the elements. When buying in bulk it is useful to label your containers with the purchase date and discard date.
Overview Calendula petals have been eaten since ancient times. Not only is it a visually attractive plant, it also has the texture that holds together when cooked. In Asia is it commonly known as pot marigold and can be found in both farmlands for cultivation, as well as in home gardens. Whether pale yellow, golden orange or lemon coloured, its blossoms make for unique culinary experiences. Common Uses Since its culinary benefits were discovered, calendula flowers have been used to colours egg yolks, colours cheeses and give vibrant colours to green salads. Their peppery taste is a perfect substitute for the zing of lemons or acidic elements. It is often added to cream cheese dips for cracker platters. It can also be used as a substitute for saffron only for the vibrant orange colouring, not the taste. Calendula tea is a very common drink in large parts of the world. Recommended Storage The most important point is that dried herbs and spices can never go bad if they are kept dry. Yes, the potency is lost, but it will still influence the flavor of your cooking. Seeds, roots, leaves and flowers last longer than crushed or ground herbs and spices. When you are preparing to store your dry herbs and spices it is vital that they are completely dry. A good indication is to rub it with your finger to check if it crumbles. As oxygen degrades dried herbs and spices over time, you should store them in airtight containers. Glass jars with sealable lids are perfect, and so are metal tins. Plastic won't do for long terms storage. Sunlight also degrades dried herbs and spices; therefore, it should be stored in a dark cabinet that is both cool and dry. If your spice rack is near the stove or cooker, steam will degrade your herbs and spices each time you open the container while cooking. When buying in bulk, you should always store only some of the dried herbs and spices in a glass or metal container. Each time you open it, it is exposed to the elements. When buying in bulk it is useful to label your containers with the purchase date and discard date.
Overview Molokhia is a dark and leafy green plant. It is also known as the Jewâ??s Mallow. It is a very acquired taste as it develops a viscosity like that of an okra when cooked. It is grown and processed all over the Middle East. Although it is mostly used fresh and in frozen form, the dried form is commonly used in countries where this plant doesn't grow. Common Uses The Lebanese version is served as a soup garnished with pita croutons, onion and red wine vinegar. In Egypt it is more toned down by serving as a green soup only â?? flavoured with a lot of garlic, coriander - scooped up with fresh, soft bread. It is also served on top of rice with roasted chicken or duck. The key in its flavour is the Taqliya which is made up of the chopped garlic fried in butter and seasoned with ground coriander. Recommended Storage The most important point is that dried herbs and spices can never go bad if they are kept dry. Yes, the potency is lost, but it will still influence the flavor of your cooking. Seeds, roots, leaves and flowers last longer than crushed or ground herbs and spices. When you are preparing to store your dry herbs and spices it is vital that they are completely dry. A good indication is to rub it with your finger to check if it crumbles. As oxygen degrades dried herbs and spices over time, you should store them in airtight containers. Glass jars with sealable lids are perfect, and so are metal tins. Plastic won't do for long terms storage. Sunlight also degrades dried herbs and spices; therefore, it should be stored in a dark cabinet that is both cool and dry. If your spice rack is near the stove or cooker, steam will degrade your herbs and spices each time you open the container while cooking. When buying in bulk, you should always store only some of the dried herbs and spices in a glass or metal container. Each time you open it, it is exposed to the elements. When buying in bulk it is useful to label your containers with the purchase date and discard date.
Overview Dry lemon is sundried until all its water content is dried up. It is used whole, sliced or ground and a very popular spice in Middle Eastern cooking as a souring agent. Common Uses Dry lemon is used for its acidity in chutneys, soups and stews. In the Middle East it is even ground into dough for flatbreads. It is used in meat dishes as well as bean-based dishes. The powder can also be added to rice. It is an essential ingredient in Persian cooking. Recommended Storage The most important point is that dried herbs and spices can never go bad if they are kept dry. Yes, the potency is lost, but it will still influence the flavor of your cooking. Seeds, roots, leaves and flowers last longer than crushed or ground herbs and spices. When you are preparing to store your dry herbs and spices it is vital that they are completely dry. A good indication is to rub it with your finger to check if it crumbles. As oxygen degrades dried herbs and spices over time, you should store them in airtight containers. Glass jars with sealable lids are perfect, and so are metal tins. Plastic won't do for long terms storage. Sunlight also degrades dried herbs and spices; therefore, it should be stored in a dark cabinet that is both cool and dry. If your spice rack is near the stove or cooker, steam will degrade your herbs and spices each time you open the container while cooking. When buying in bulk, you should always store only some of the dried herbs and spices in a glass or metal container. Each time you open it, it is exposed to the elements. When buying in bulk it is useful to label your containers with the purchase date and discard date.
Overview Flaxseeds are considered one of the world's first super foods and have been consumed for over 6000 years. These seeds are packed with fibre, fatty acids, and fights cancer, cardiovascular problems. It is easily considered one of the healthiest foods on the planet. Common Uses Flaxeeds on their own aren't necessarily the most exciting meal, but it makes great breakfast dishes. It can be cooked like one would cook oatmeal and served the same way. It can also be added in smoothies to add a nutty flavor. Flaxseeds are also added to breads and salads. In the Middle East, these seeds are added to meat dishes to create a substantial meal. Recommended Storage The most important point is that dried herbs and spices can never go bad if they are kept dry. Yes, the potency is lost, but it will still influence the flavor of your cooking. Seeds, roots, leaves and flowers last longer than crushed or ground herbs and spices. When you are preparing to store your dry herbs and spices it is vital that they are completely dry. A good indication is to rub it with your finger to check if it crumbles. As oxygen degrades dried herbs and spices over time, you should store them in airtight containers. Glass jars with sealable lids are perfect, and so are metal tins. Plastic won't do for long terms storage. Sunlight also degrades dried herbs and spices; therefore, it should be stored in a dark cabinet that is both cool and dry. If your spice rack is near the stove or cooker, steam will degrade your herbs and spices each time you open the container while cooking. When buying in bulk, you should always store only some of the dried herbs and spices in a glass or metal container. Each time you open it, it is exposed to the elements. When buying in bulk it is useful to label your containers with the purchase date and discard date.
Overview Fennel Seed is a small elongated seed that is both used whole or ground and is identified by its licoricey flavour. It is native to the Mediterranean region, but also grown and processed in the Middle East. In India, it is most welcoming to receive a bowl of fennel seeds with small sugar crystals after a meal is paid for. It freshens the breath and leaves the mouth with that licoricey smell. Common Uses Fennel seeds can be used whole or ground in a wide array of meat and fish dishes. It also adds unique flavours to vegetarian dishes such as dahls, grain pilafs and vegetable curries. Italian cuisine benefits from fennel seeds by adding it to breads and meaty stews. It is not only limited to savoury dishes, no, fruit salads with a sprinkle of fennel seeds makes for quite a taste sensation. Homemade crackers with a sprinkle of fennel seed is quite delicious too. Recommended Storage The most important point is that dried herbs and spices can never go bad if they are kept dry. Yes, the potency is lost, but it will still influence the flavor of your cooking. Seeds, roots, leaves and flowers last longer than crushed or ground herbs and spices. When you are preparing to store your dry herbs and spices it is vital that they are completely dry. A good indication is to rub it with your finger to check if it crumbles. As oxygen degrades dried herbs and spices over time, you should store them in airtight containers. Glass jars with sealable lids are perfect, and so are metal tins. Plastic won't do for long terms storage. Sunlight also degrades dried herbs and spices; therefore, it should be stored in a dark cabinet that is both cool and dry. If your spice rack is near the stove or cooker, steam will degrade your herbs and spices each time you open the container while cooking. When buying in bulk, you should always store only some of the dried herbs and spices in a glass or metal container. Each time you open it, it is exposed to the elements. When buying in bulk it is useful to label your containers with the purchase date and discard date.
Overview Sunflower Seeds are a unique food source. It provides a healthy source of essential oils and an excellent source of fibre. It is perhaps the most commonly available seed on the market. Common Uses Sunflower seeds can be eaten whole while raw or cooked. It is often added to the top of breads and even cakes. Sunflower seeds are found in trail mixes and breakfast foods. In the Middle East, it is consumed as a snack whether salted or unsalted. Recommended Storage The most important point is that dried herbs and spices can never go bad if they are kept dry. Yes, the potency is lost, but it will still influence the flavor of your cooking. Seeds, roots, leaves and flowers last longer than crushed or ground herbs and spices. When you are preparing to store your dry herbs and spices it is vital that they are completely dry. A good indication is to rub it with your finger to check if it crumbles. As oxygen degrades dried herbs and spices over time, you should store them in airtight containers. Glass jars with sealable lids are perfect, and so are metal tins. Plastic won't do for long terms storage. Sunlight also degrades dried herbs and spices; therefore, it should be stored in a dark cabinet that is both cool and dry. If your spice rack is near the stove or cooker, steam will degrade your herbs and spices each time you open the container while cooking. When buying in bulk, you should always store only some of the dried herbs and spices in a glass or metal container. Each time you open it, it is exposed to the elements. When buying in bulk it is useful to label your containers with the purchase date and discard date.
Overview Sesame seeds are de-corticated to remove the black skin before it is packaged and used. It is available in a range of colours too, whether white, brown, black, red and yellow or hulled. The darker seeds have the most flavours. Common Uses Sesame seed has a nutty, fresh burst-in-the-mouth flavour that is most commonly used as a bread and bun topping. It can also be sprinkled over fresh salads, and in Asian cooking it is sprinkled over stir fries too. Ground sesame is the main ingredient in Tahini, which is an essential paste in the Middle East. Seed bars almost always have sesame as a main ingredient. It works very well with chicken and it adds a very distinctive taste to rice dishes that are served with Asian meals. Recommended Storage The most important point is that dried herbs and spices can never go bad if they are kept dry. Yes, the potency is lost, but it will still influence the flavor of your cooking. Seeds, roots, leaves and flowers last longer than crushed or ground herbs and spices. When you are preparing to store your dry herbs and spices it is vital that they are completely dry. A good indication is to rub it with your finger to check if it crumbles. As oxygen degrades dried herbs and spices over time, you should store them in airtight containers. Glass jars with sealable lids are perfect, and so are metal tins. Plastic won't do for long terms storage. Sunlight also degrades dried herbs and spices; therefore, it should be stored in a dark cabinet that is both cool and dry. If your spice rack is near the stove or cooker, steam will degrade your herbs and spices each time you open the container while cooking. When buying in bulk, you should always store only some of the dried herbs and spices in a glass or metal container. Each time you open it, it is exposed to the elements. When buying in bulk it is useful to label your containers with the purchase date and discard date.
Overview The daisy-like flower is cultivated in North Africa and central Europe. Although it is mostly used as a tisane, it is also a very important ingredient in beauty products and teas. Chamomile aids relaxation and sleep, and it also improves digestive problems. Common Uses The flower is infused in creams to get the flavour into elegant desserts. Chamomile oils are used in seafood dishes due to its acidity and herbal flavour. Chamomile is also used in alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails. The most common use is to mix chamomile powder in a cup of hot tea. One can also sprinkle the powder over soups and stews for an acidic element. In baking one can add the chamomile powder to cookie batter, scones batter and even muffins to add a delicate floral aroma. Recommended Storage The most important point is that dried herbs and spices can never go bad if they are kept dry. Yes, the potency is lost, but it will still influence the flavor of your cooking. Seeds, roots, leaves and flowers last longer than crushed or ground herbs and spices. When you are preparing to store your dry herbs and spices it is vital that they are completely dry. A good indication is to rub it with your finger to check if it crumbles. As oxygen degrades dried herbs and spices over time, you should store them in airtight containers. Glass jars with sealable lids are perfect, and so are metal tins. Plastic won't do for long terms storage. Sunlight also degrades dried herbs and spices; therefore, it should be stored in a dark cabinet that is both cool and dry. If your spice rack is near the stove or cooker, steam will degrade your herbs and spices each time you open the container while cooking. When buying in bulk, you should always store only some of the dried herbs and spices in a glass or metal container. Each time you open it, it is exposed to the elements. When buying in bulk it is useful to label your containers with the purchase date and discard date.
