When you think of Kerala, the first thing that may come to mind is India’s most popular tourist destination, Kerala. But did you know that the state is also home to some of the world’s most famous spices? For example, Kerala is known for its cardamom, cumin, and chili peppers. Kerala spices are a mix of various herbs, spices, and flavorings that are used in many traditional South Indian dishes. These spices are often mixed to create different flavors and aromas. And if you’re looking to cook with these spices or store them for future use, read on for tips on how to do just that. From storing your spices in a cool, dry place to using specific containers for each type of spice, learn everything you need to get started in this comprehensive guide.
How to store and use Kerala spices
There are many ways to store Kerala spices. You can store them in a clean, airtight container in a cool, dark place. You can also add them to your pantry, which will last up to six months. Alternatively, you can pack them into a small bag and keep them in the fridge.
Kerala is known for its distinctive spices and flavors. You can find the best spices in Kerala. Here are some tips on how to use Kerala spices:
Cumin: Add cumin seeds to ground meat or poultry before cooking, or sprinkle it onto cooked vegetables, grains, or soups.
Cardamom pods: Crush the cardamom pods and steep them in hot milk for a soothing cup of tea. Add a few pods to the coffee for an interesting flavor twist.
Fennel seeds: Fennel seeds are both savory and sweet and can be used in sauces, stews, couscous dishes, or as a garnish.
Mustard seeds: Add mustard seeds to roasted veggies or meats for a touch of salty flavor. Store sopices in an airtight container in a cool place for up to 6 months.
Like any other seasoning, use Kerala spices sparingly – too much will overpower your dish and ruin the flavor. Also, be sure not to store them near direct heat – this could cause them to spoil.
When using Kerala spices, make sure to taste them before you use them, so you know if they are still fresh.
How to store spices to retain flavor
When storing spices for future use, it is important to keep them in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bag for flavor retention. Spice storage in a cool and dark place to prevent them from becoming stale. Some tips on how to store and use Kerala spices include:
– Ground spices can be stored in an airtight container for up to 6 months.
– The shelf life of whole spices will last for 3-4 months.
-When you can, buy whole spices like nutmeg and grate just the amount you need for your recipe. Whole spices keep their freshness longer than ground ones.
-Keep ground spices, whole spices, and chilies organized within their respective categories (sweet, hot, sour) so they are easily accessible.
-Store fresh herbs such as cilantro and ginger separately from dried herbs. Dried herbs will retain their flavor better if stored in a cool dark place.
– When storing Kerala spices, keep them in a cool, dark place like your pantry or spice cabinet. You can also transfer them to smaller containers if you need to store them for longer.
Conclusion
Kerala spices are some of the most aromatic spices and flavorful in the world, and they make an excellent addition to any dish. Here is a guide on storing and using Kerala spices to get the most out of them.
