The monsoon season may bring cooler weather, but it also brings a whole lot of moisture - and that spells trouble for your kitchen staples. From ants in sugar jars to weevils in pulses, the rainy season can wreak havoc on commonly used pantry ingredients. Humidity not only affects the shelf life of food items but also invites pests that are difficult to get rid of. Ingredients like flour, lentils, gram flour, and even sugar can become unusable if not stored correctly. Proper storage during the rainy season is key to maintaining hygiene and avoiding waste.
Below are some practical, no-nonsense tips to store monsoon-sensitive food ingredients like a pro. These methods use everyday items and are easy to follow - no complicated tricks required.
Also Read: How To Keep Spinach, Methi And Coriander Fresh During The Monsoon Season
Here Are 5 Common Kitchen Ingredients That Spoil In Monsoon And How To Save Them:
1. How To Keep Lentils Insect-Free During Monsoon
Moisture in the air creates the perfect environment for insects to breed in lentils and pulses. To prevent this, place dry neem leaves inside the storage container. The natural properties of neem help repel pests, keeping dals safe for longer.
2. Prevent Insects in Rajma and Chole With This Simple Hack
Chickpeas and kidney beans are high-protein staples in most Indian kitchens. Unfortunately, they are also highly prone to absorbing moisture. Store them in airtight containers to keep dampness out. Add two to three whole red chillies inside the container - the pungent aroma acts as a natural insect repellent.
3. Keep Flour Fresh And Dry During Humid Weather
Flour (atta) can get infested with worms and bugs rapidly in damp conditions. Always use a clean, sun-dried container for storage. Before sealing the flour, mix in a spoonful of salt. Salt helps absorb any residual moisture and acts as a natural preservative.
4. Store Sugar Without Attracting Ants Or Moisture
Sugar turns clumpy or attracts ants when exposed to humidity. Use a glass jar with a tight lid to store it - plastic containers often trap moisture. For added protection, place a stick of cinnamon inside. It not only keeps ants away but also adds a subtle aroma.
5. Best Way To Store Besan (Gram Flour) In Monsoon
Besan, or gram flour, spoils quickly in the rainy season. Transfer it into an airtight container to prevent moisture exposure. You can also refrigerate it, which helps prolong freshness and keeps insects at bay.
Storing pantry staples correctly during monsoon is not just about avoiding waste - it is about keeping your kitchen hygienic and your cooking stress-free. These storage hacks using everyday kitchen ingredients like neem, chillies, salt, and cinnamon can go a long way.
Try them out this season and keep your food fresh, your pantry clean, and your cooking uninterrupted.