S Panchanathan Stores
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Quick answer
Keep dry fruits in clean, dry, airtight glass or steel jars in a cool, dark cupboard. In humid months or for more than a month, keep the jars in the fridge.
- Nuts turn rancid when warm; the fridge keeps them fresh for months.
- Raisins and figs dry out or get sticky; an airtight jar is enough.
- Throw away anything that smells bitter or oily, shows mould, or has insects.
How long do they last?
Almonds and walnutsOily nuts
CupboardFridge
Lasts: about a month in a cupboard once opened; several months in the fridge
Cashews and pistaGo stale fast
CupboardFridge
Lasts: a few weeks in a cupboard once opened; months in the fridge
Raisins and figsDried fruit
CupboardFridge
Lasts: a few months in an airtight jar; longer in the fridge
These are rough guides for opened packs in a Tamil Nadu kitchen. Always check the best before date on the pack and use your nose.
Where to keep them
Do
- Airtight glass or steel jars
- A cupboard away from the stove and sunlight
- The fridge in rainy and humid months
- A dry spoon every time
Don't
- Leave packs open with a clip
- Store them above the stove or near the window
- Mix old and new stock in one jar
- Wash nuts before storing
Signs they have gone bad
Smellbitter, paint-like or oily: the nuts are rancid
Lookfuzzy spots, webs or tiny holes: mould or insects
Tastesoft, chewy or bitter where they should be crunchy
Not a fault
White powder on dried figs and sugary crystals on raisins are their own sugar coming out. Fuzzy green or black spots are mould: throw those away.
Questions people ask
Can I freeze dry fruits?
Yes. Nuts keep for up to a year in the freezer in a closed box. Let them come to room temperature before opening to avoid moisture.
Why do my almonds taste bitter?
They have turned rancid from heat or age. Throw them away; rancid nuts are not good to eat.
How do I keep insects out?
Airtight jars, a clean dry cupboard, and buying smaller packs you finish in a few weeks.
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