Tips to keep your spices from clumping
Isn't it really annoying to find your spices clumped? I can hear you say a big YES. Well it is a problem that most of us might have faced.
Read through the following paragraphs to know why spices get clumped and how to put a stop to it.
Why spices get clumped?
The three main threats to spices are light, oxygen and humidity.
Spices get clumped mostly due to long time exposure to heat and moisture which seep into the container.
Dried leafy herbs and pigmented spices such as Turmeric or Saffron get damaged mainly due to light.
There are some photosensitive elements present in spices. So, when the spices are exposed to light they begin to oxidise and break down.
The carbs and proteins present in the spices dissolve a small amount due to which the granules stick tigether, hence leading to clumping of spices.
• The lumpy and hardened spices pose difficulty in mixing them into the food properly.
• Clumping of spices reduces or diminishes the flavour and strength of herbs and spices.
HOW TO PREVENT THE SPICES FROM CLUMPING:
1. Store your spices in airtight containers in a cool and dry place.
2. Keep your spices containers/shakers upside down.
3. Put some dried beans into the spice containers. The dried beans will absorb any moisture if present.
4. Avoid shaking the spices over any liquid or solid food which is hot or boiling because the steam causes excess moisture.
5. To unclump your spices, grind them in any blender, a coffee grinder for instance.
6. You can also use a mortar and pestle to unclump the spices.
- ROZEE BEHERA
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