How to Store Spices

How to Store Spices

Where do you keep your spices?

While keeping your spice jars above the stove might be convenient it is not the best place to keep them. This is because spices and herbs will begin to break down when exposed to light, moisture and heat. The ideal storage temperature for your spices and herbs is one that remains fairly constant and right around 70° F. So for optimum flavor and shelf life you should store these away from the heat of the stove, heaters or the sun.

A good storage system will also keep your spices and herbs in the dark and dry. Some folks prefer amber glass jars with airtight lids for this reason. You can also keep them in a cupboard or drawer (as long as the temperature in the kitchen is relatively cool) but be sure that they are not exposed to light. You should also be aware that temperature fluctuations may cause unwanted condensation, and possibly mold, for that reason I am not a big fan of storing my spices in the refrigerator or freezer.

As a final word of caution on condensation build up be aware of how you use your spices around the stove. Don't shake directly into a pot or pan over direct heat as the moisture goes right into the bottle. It is better to shake the amount you want to add into the palm of your hand and then add that to the pot or pan.