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 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 Fenugreek is perhaps a less commonly used spice, as it is classified as a legume. Its somewhat bitter flavour and very strong aroma is a peculiar taste and smell. These seeds retain their flavour for many years. Common Uses Fenugreek Seeds is an element of Indian cuisine and is one of the five spices in the five-spice Begali mix. In the Far East, it is used as a pickling spice. In dry form, it should be used sparingly as it has a very overpowering aroma and taste. A pinch of ground fenugreek can be added to falafel and chickpea fishes. It can also be mixed into mashed potatoes. Although it smells sweet like maple syrup when infused as a tea, it is not it is quite bitter and should be used sparingly. 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 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.
