How can I keep saffron fresh for longer?
We don't use saffron that often. The last batch we got went stale. Is there anything I can do to preserve it for longer? (For example, our spice rack gets a lot of direct sunlight, is that bad?) How long can I expect it to last?
Best Answer
There are special glass jars made to protect herbs from damaging uva/b rays, proven to maintain freshness. Granted, these little jars are designed for a "different" kind of herb, I, on the other hand, use them for my ultra expensive, direct from the middle east saffron. Keep an open mind and enjoy your saffron!!!
Pictures about "How can I keep saffron fresh for longer?"
Quick Answer about "How can I keep saffron fresh for longer?"
Store saffron in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to six months for maximum flavor. Saffron, like other herbs and spices, is sensitive to light, so wrap the packet in foil to protect it further. Saffron will not spoil, but it will lose increasingly more and more of its flavor with age.Should saffron be kept in the fridge?
There are many people that want to store saffron in the fridge. However, storing saffron in a refrigerator should be avoided, especially in case you are using saffron frequently. When moving saffron in and out of the fridge all the time, you will create condensation.How can I store saffron at home?
Saffron should be stored in an airtight container, preferably in a glass jar in a cool, dark, and dry place. The ideal storage temperature for saffron is below 68\xb0F and in less than 40% humidity.How long does saffron last in a jar?
Properly stored, saffron threads will generally stay at best quality for about 2 to 3 years. To maximize the shelf life of saffron threads purchased in bulk, and to better retain flavor and potency, store in containers with tight-fitting lids.Can I keep saffron in the freezer?
In our first post on saffron storage, we described how to store saffron in the freezer for it to maintain its features for about two years. Another method is to keep saffron filaments intact until you need them and grind the herb right before usage to retain the maximum effect.How to Keep Saffron Fresh
More answers regarding how can I keep saffron fresh for longer?
Answer 2
Use common advices: closed jars, in a fresh and dark place (a bodega is wonderful for keeping the spices).
Direct sun is one of the worst enemies.
And when everything else fails, consume it ... f.ex. this very simple recipe, just rice + veg stock + mushrooms + garlic + persil + saffron
http://elsfogonsdelabordeta.wordpress.com/2010/11/24/arros-caldos-de-safra/
Answer 3
You can keep it in the freezer. It will probably keep for a really long time, if wrapped well and kept frozen.
Spices in general can be stored in the fridge or freezer for a longer shelf life - just like most other foods. You will want to be sure to wrap very well and make sure the container is good, since it will be a problem if condensation accumulates in the container. And whole spices will likely hold up better than ground.
As for saffron specifically, my parents brought back a huge thing of saffron from when they were in turkey years and years ago, and they kept it in the freezer - and it's still good, it smells strongly and flavors well when warmed up and isn't stale or anything. They use saffron often enough (for traditional Indian desserts) to keep a small amount in a jar in the spice rack that they could use when needed that could be refilled from the larger container, so the large container isn't exposed to temperature changes every time they want a pinch. For me, since I have a tiny little flat container and use it infrequently, I keep the whole thing in the freezer - it doesn't take long to grab a pinch out anyway, so it doesn't warm up too much -and it's still probably better stored than keeping it in the cabinet.
Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.
Images: Rachel Claire, Karolina Grabowska, Darya Sannikova, Leah Kelley