Spices are an integral part of Indian cuisine. They have the ability to transform the flavour of any dish and even bring the most basic ingredients to life. Since masalas are used extensively in Indian cooking, it's important to store them the right way in order to increase their shelf life. And the best way to do this is to store them in a masala box or namak dani. This humble steel round box is something that you'll find in every Indian kitchen. Storing masalas in a namak dani helps in preserving their freshness and flavour, and also takes up less space than individual jars. However, cleaning a masala box can be quite challenging. If not cleaned regularly, the box can get stained and it can also have an impact on the freshness of the masalas. To help you out, here we bring you some easy tips on how to clean a masala box.
Also read: Kitchen Tips: How To Clean Wooden Utensils
Here Are 5 Tips To Clean A Masala Box:
1. Rinse With Warm Water
One of the most obvious ways to clean a namak dani is by rinsing it thoroughly with warm water. This helps in removing any residual masalas and prevents them from sticking to the box. However, if you're using a wooden masala box, make sure not to use too much water.
2. Use A Mild Soap
You can also use a mild detergent or liquid soap to clean your masala box. Take a large container and fill it with warm water and a few drops of liquid soap. Soak the masala box in it for 15-20 minutes. Once done, wash with hot water and pat dry.
3. Use Vinegar
Vinegar is extremely effective in removing stubborn stains. All you have to do is mix 2-3 tbsp of vinegar to a cup of water. Pour this solution all over the masala box and leave it for some time. Clean it with a wet cloth and keep it in the sun to dry.
Also read: Kitchen Tips: How To Clean Greasy Utensils
4. Use A Soft Sponge
Wipe the inside of your namak dani with a soft sponge dipped in dish soap. Avoid using a rough sponge as this could scratch the surface of the box. Once you've scrubbed it nicely, rinse with warm water and wipe away any soap residue.
5. Let It Dry Completely
Once you have rinsed the masala box thoroughly, allow it to dry completely. The best way to do this is to leave it in the sun. When it has dried completely, you can refill it with all the masalas. That way, your masalas will be fresh and won't smell.
So, the next time you're cleaning your masala box, do keep these tips in your mind!