Nutmeg has a warm, spicy, nutty flavor that perks up cookies, breads and other baked goods. It is also a vital ingredient in eggnog. However, the volatile oils in this spice make the ground version highly perishable. Learn the best way to keep ground nutmeg fresh.
Instructions
1. To keep your , you must make sure that you are buying fresh nutmeg to begin with. One of the best ways to do this is to buy nutmeg in bulk. This way, you can get as little or as much as you want and can examine the product for freshness before you buy. Ground nutmeg should have a pungent, spicy scent and should be a light and fluffy powder, not sticky, clumpy or odorless. If you buy ground nutmeg in a package, look for one with an airtight seal and an expiration date printed on the side.
2. Ground nutmeg keeps best when kept in the dark. If the nutmeg you buy comes in a clear bottle, consider transferring to a brown glass jar or other opaque container or storing it in the cupboard, away from sunlight.
3. Ground nutmeg also stores best away from heat sources. As convenient as it may be, don't position your spice rack right next to your oven. All that heat will cause nutmeg and other volatile spices to go stale very quickly. Avoid radiators and heat vents, too.
4. Make sure ground nutmeg stays dry and avoid storing it near sinks or dishwashers.
5. Smell the nutmeg each time before you use it to make sure it's still fresh and flavorful.
6. Since the flavor degrades so quickly, buy only as much nutmeg as you will use in a month.
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