Overview Black pepper essential oil is musky, spicy and tastes of pure pepper. It is mostly used as a health supplement instead of a cooking aid. It aids in digestive problems, it is antibacterial, aperient, antirheumatic and full of antioxidants. Common Uses Black Pepper essential oil is often used to treat both constipation and diarrhea. One can add a few drops to soup, a smoothie or even a cup of hot water. It also has a proven track record for use as a massage oil for muscle injuries and tendinitis. Recommended Storage The ideal storage of essential oils is to keep it refrigerated, as the fridge keeps the components that make up the oils at their optimal levels. If you don't have space in the fridge, you can keep it in a cool, dark place. Essential oils have a shelf life of one to five years. You should however replace essential oils after three years to gain the most benefits out of the essential oils.
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.
Overview Marjoram is very closely related to oregano, but very different in so many ways. It is perhaps the ultimate meat herb because it elevates both meat and poultry to a whole new level. This aromatic herb has been used since the beginning of time and it grows very well in hot areas such as North Africa and the Middle East. Common Uses Even though it works perfectly with meat, it is an excellent herb for vegetable-based dishes. It should be used in combination with other herbs and spices as it is very pungent and can overpower all other flavours. Italian dishes would lack without marjoram. Pizza sauces, soups, salad dressings and grain dishes all taste excellent when marjoram is added. 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 Red Chili is cultivated and processed in many parts of the world. The flavours range from mildly hot to extremely spicy. Common Uses Red Chili is used in stews, soups and in bean dishes. Chili ice cream as well as chili chocolate are two relatedly new dessert concepts that are enjoyed all over the world. Hispanic cuisine is known for having red chili as an ingredient. It is a perfect addition to tomato-based stews, sauces and soups. Peanut and sesame seed oils are enhanced with red chili when used in oriental noodle dishes. 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.
We live in a world where convenience is key. Many of us work long hours and that attributes to unhealthy eating as we tend to take the quicker option, which unfortunately may not be the healthiest option. Caliph Trade also offers cooked and ready to eat frozen meals. These frozen items are packed in 500 gram and 1-kilogram plastic bags and can be frozen for up to 18 months. Our cooked frozen and ready to eat meals include: Falafel Falafel with mozzarella/kashkaval cheese stuffing Falafel with spiced peppers Honey balls zalabya Lamb Kofta Beef meatballs Kebab We sell these in bulk and shipment is by freezer containers, which are kept at -18 degrees Celsius.
Overview It is believed that after pepper, coriander is the most widely used spice in the world. It is grown and processed worldwide, and in large quantities in Egypt. Its warm, husky, aromatic flavour is most commonly used in its ground form. Common Uses Coriander seeds are essential to Indian cooking. Its complex flavour is a touch sweet and a touch spicy. In Indonesian cooking, coriander is used for tempeh recipes and a masterful seasoning to bean dishes. Cabbage and corn are elevated to a whole new level with a handful of ground coriander seeds. It is added to chutneys and relishes as well and whole seeds are used for vegetable pickling. 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 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 Having garlic oil in the kitchen is a great blessing. This essential oil is extremely versatile and can be used for both cooking and health reasons. Common Uses In cooking, garlic oil can be used as a replacement for garlic butter. It can also be drizzled over meat, chicken and salads. For health uses, garlic essential oils are known to treat skin issues. Athlete's foot and ringworm can be treated with garlic essential oil. It can be used to treat ear infections, and even the common cold. A few drops of this essential oil can be added to a cup of tea for easy ingestion. Recommended Storage The ideal storage of essential oils is to keep it refrigerated, as the fridge keeps the components that make up the oils at their optimal levels. If you don't have space in the fridge, you can keep it in a cool, dark place. Essential oils have a shelf life of one to five years. You should however replace essential oils after three years to gain the most benefits out of the essential oils.
Overview Anise Seed is related to cumin and fennel. It is an annual plant that is indigenous to the Eastern Mediterranean region and cultivated in parts of the world. It is very often used in Middle Eastern cooking, particularly in dishes that contain vegetables as the basis of the flavours. Anise Seed is not related to star anise. Common Uses The licoricey taste of Anise Seed is most commonly used to make liqueurs such as Ouzo, Anisete and Pernod. It is widely used in cake baking and cookies, such as Italian biscotti. Citrus fruits in its fresh form are elevated with a sprinkle of Anise Seeds. It complements dark breads and is often 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 It is said that Caraway seeds are the oldest and longest used spice in Europe, dating back to Egypt in 1552BC. Caraway seeds are cultivated from a slender biennial plant that is native to the Middle Eastern, Asian and Central European regions. It is thus also widely used in these regions cooking, whether whole or ground. This herb's use can be found in many historical writings. Common Uses Caraway seeds are most importantly used in flavouring rye breads, biscuits, bread sticks, cakes and cheeses. It is an essential ingredient of soda bread. It is used in pickling and during the fermenting process of dishes such as sauerkraut. In North India, a curry wouldn't be perfect without its addition, nor would harissa pastes in North Africa. Caraway seeds are furthermore the main ingredients in liqueurs such as schnapps and aquavit. It is also a flavour booster for root vegetables and potatoes. 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 Cardamom is indigenous to South India but is now cultivated and processed in North Africa and the Middle East, as well as other parts of the world. This is perhaps one of the costliest herbs to buy. The green pods contain small, black seeds that give of a strong lemon-like aroma and flavour. Common Uses Cardamom works well with both sweet and savoury dishes. Fruit and nut-based desserts are elevated by adding cardamom to the mix. Cardamom is also worthy replacement of allspice in dishes that require it. It is best accompanied in pumpkin, squash and sweet potato dishes. It also works wonders in tomato-based stews. In North Africa and the Middle East, people often add a handful of cardamom pods to a pot of stock while chicken or duck is cooked. 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 Cumin Seed plant is related to parsley and is indigenous to the Mediterranean region. These seeds have pungent lemon flavours to them and are most often used in ground form. It is a very fundamental ingredient in Middle Eastern and Indian cooking and makes it a favourite seasoning in several ethnic cuisines. Common Uses Ground cumin seeds are very often used in Spanish, Mexican, Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cookpots. It is added in bean stews, vegetable stews, lentils, dahls and tomato-based sauces. In Europe cumin seeds are very regularly added to breads, such as breadsticks and cornbread. In India it is almost always a component of a good curry in fact it is part of garam masala. Cumin can also be used to flavour cheeses. 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 Also known as Royal Cumin Seeds in India, black cumin seeds are superior spices superior in flavour and what it does to dishes. Black cumin seeds are the seeds of two different plants, with a smoky and earthy taste. Common Uses Black cumin seeds are perfectly suited for vegetable dishes. It is an essential element in Indian cooking. In fact, it is a sin not to use these seeds in British Indian Restaurants. 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 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 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 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.
