How do you preserve spices?!
Answers: is each different?
Most spices should be kept in a dry, cool, dark space. There are a few, like red pepper flakes,& cayane pepper that are better kept in the refrigerator. Spices are not intended to be kept for extended periods of time, they are best when fresh.
Purchase the smallest amount possible, keep in the original container, store away from the stove. Those spice racks are cute but not the best method of keeping the spices. If you place the spices in other containers, use tight fitting lids and label well.
Keep them in the freezer. But fresh is best.
For GROUND spices:
Store your spices in airtight GLASS jars not metal tins because of the essential oils they contain..you won't have to worry about the oils interacting with metal.
6 months is the maximum recommended time for storage and then you should replace them with fresh spices.
For WHOLE spices:
Store them also in airtight GLASS containers and you should be able to keep them a longer period of time if you GRIND them as you need them.
keeping spices in an airtight container is good. but if you need to keep those spices for a considerable long period, keeping it in the fridge is advisable.
yup
if you're talking about drying the spice
each spice requires different treatment
these days they use food dehydrator to do the job
http://www.made-in-china.com/image/2f0j0...
When I buy spices I try to get them whole, rather than ground, and I grind them fresh for recipes.
They keep their flavor MUCH longer that way.
I keep a little in my spice cabinet, and the rest in airtight containers in the freezer.