A collection of open spice jars and cardboard spice pots on a light stone kitchen countertop, filled with colourful spices such as smoked paprika, oregano, cumin and chili flakes
Tags:
biologische kruiden

Somewhere at the back of your spice cupboard there’s probably a jar you bought once especially for a single recipe. Maybe ras el hanout, za'atar or smoked paprika. You used one teaspoon and then the jar disappeared into the background.

You’re not the only one. Many people unknowingly collect dozens of spices that are hardly used. A shame, because spices are made to add flavor. In addition, they lose their potency over time.

Summer is an ideal time to give your spice cupboard a once-over. Your barbecue is working overtime, salads appear on the table more often and many spices are perfect for light summer dishes.

 

Why spices lose flavor over time

Dried spices usually don’t spoil quickly, but their flavor does diminish. The essential oils responsible for aroma and scent slowly evaporate. As a result, spices that have been in the cupboard for years may still be safe to eat, but contribute much less flavor.

Heat, light and moisture accelerate this process. That is why spices stored next to the stove or in direct sunlight lose their aroma faster.

A simple way to check whether spices are still potent is the wrijftest (the rub test). Rub a small amount between your fingers. Is there hardly any scent released? Then it’s time to replace the jar.

 

Give your spice cupboard a quick summer check

Cleaning out a spice cupboard doesn’t have to be complicated.

1. Check the best-before date

Spices often remain good longer than the date on the packaging, but very old spices usually lose a lot of flavor.

2. Use the rub test

Can you hardly smell anything? Then the spice probably contributes little to your dish.

3. Remove spices that have lost their aroma

This way you keep an overview and prevent yourself from always reaching for the same old jars.

4. Sort by use

For example, make groups for barbecue, salads, marinades or Asian dishes.

 

5 spices you can easily finish this summer

  • Smoked paprika: perfect for barbecue dishes, marinades, roasted potatoes and grilled vegetables.
  • Za'atar: delicious over flatbread, tomato salad, hummus or grilled lamb.
  • Oregano: a classic for Greek salads, grilled zucchini, fish and Mediterranean dishes.
  • Cumin: adds depth to burgers, chicken marinades, bean dishes and homemade spice blends.
  • Chili flakes: ideal as a finishing touch over pizza, grilled shrimp or watermelon with feta.

 

Make your own spice mix from spices you already have

Do you have several jars that you only use occasionally? Then you don’t have to buy new spices right away. A simple way to use up leftovers is to make your own spice mix.

Many popular spice blends consist of spices that are likely already in your cupboard. Think of combinations of paprika, oregano, garlic, cumin, thyme or chili flakes.

By cleverly combining spices you can easily create a mix for barbecue dishes, potatoes, grilled vegetables or chicken.

A few ideas:

  • Paprika + garlic + oregano for a Mediterranean spice mix
  • Cumin + coriander + chili flakes for a Mexican spice mix
  • Rosemary + thyme + garlic for potatoes and grilled vegetables
  • Oregano + basil + thyme for Italian dishes

On our blog you’ll find various recipes and inspiration to make your own spice mixes with spices you already have at home:

This way you give forgotten spice jars a second life and often discover new flavor combinations.

 

How to best store organic spices

Proper storage makes more difference than many people think.

  • Store spices in a dark, dry place.
  • Do not place them above the stove.
  • Avoid direct sunlight.
  • Always close packaging tightly.
  • Store large quantities preferably in a cool place rather than a warm one.

You can also preserve fresh herbs longer by placing them in a glass of water or by freezing chopped herbs in olive oil.

 

No loose spices? Use a spice blend

Don’t feel like combining several jars for every dish? Then spice blends are a practical solution.

Our world mixes contain various herbs and spices in one blend, without added salt or sugar. That way you decide yourself how much salt to add to a dish.

Popular summer choices are:

Or choose one of our organic spice mixes:

Why we choose cardboard spice jars

At Natural Spices we consciously choose cardboard packaging instead of plastic. This aligns with our organic approach and our desire to minimize packaging material as much as possible.

Whatever packaging you use: keeping spices cool, dark and dry remains the most important rule for long shelf life.

 

Give your spice cupboard five minutes of attention this week

Take three jars out of your cupboard and do the rub test. There’s a good chance you’ll immediately discover which spices still have plenty of flavor and which need replacing.

Maybe there’s a forgotten favorite among them that will find a place on the barbecue this summer after all.

 

Frequently asked questions about organic spices

1. How long are organic spices good for?

Organic spices usually remain good for 1 to 3 years when stored dry, cool and dark. However, flavor and aroma gradually decrease, causing older spices to impart less aroma to dishes.

2. How do I know if spices have lost their flavor?

Use the rub test. Rub a small amount of spice between your fingers and smell it. If the scent is barely present, the spices have likely lost much of their flavor.

3. Can you still safely use old spices?

In most cases yes. Dried spices do not spoil quickly when stored properly. However, they can lose so much flavor that they hardly contribute to a dish.

4. What is the best place to store spices?

Store spices in a closed container in a dark, dry and cool place. A kitchen cabinet away from the stove, dishwasher and direct sunlight is ideal.

5. Are organic spices different from regular spices?

Organic spices are grown according to organic guidelines and without synthetic pesticides. In terms of shelf life, largely the same storage tips apply as for conventional spices. Proper storage remains the most important factor for preserving flavor and aroma.