Proper STORAGE: Sauces, Seasonings and Spices.

1380—The Philippines welcomed the Arab traders who brought with them lots of goods and one of these are the first spices. Filipinos are known for having sweet tooth and for a variety of delicacies found on the different parts of the country. We are fond of making the food that we serve as tasty as it can be.

For centuries, the original Filipino taste is influenced with other cultures, first was the above-mentioned Arabians, then there were the Spanish, the Americans, the Japanese and of course the Chinese. Chinese people have a great contribution in molding the history of the true Pinoy food. One is their sauces and spices.

Black bean, chili paste, chili sauce and hoisin sauce are just few of the Chinese seasonings that we Filipinos are using. But do all of these should be stored in the cupboard? Here are the storage instructions for the main types of sauces and seasonings.

Refrigerator. Sauces that should be put in the refrigerator are the black bean sauce or the tausi, chili paste, chili sauce, hoisin sauce, plum sauce, oyster sauce and the sweet and sour sauce. These should be refrigerated immediately after opening. If not, because of our tropical weather it will have bubbles and mold within two weeks (or less) time. In this case, it shouldn’t be consumed for it will be harmful for the health and bad for the stomach. If refrigerated, oyster sauce can last from 3 to 6 months.

Packed or canned tomato sauce should also be refrigerated or consumed once opened because it can only last for 5 short days. On the other hand, putting soy sauce in the ref helps it to maintain its original taste longer.

Cupboard. Hot chilli oil, rice vinegar, rice wine, dry sherry, sesame oil, dark soy sauce, light soy sauce, fish sauce and vinegar can be stored in the cupboard and should be put away from direct sunlight.

Never stock canned sauces and goods may it be on the cupboard or on the ref. Chemicals in the can itself can mix up with the food and may be harmful to one’s health. Instead, transfer the contents to a container (without removing the liquid if it has any) and then put it inside the refrigerator.

So how to check if the seasoning is still good to use?

Aside from the expiration date, check if there are changes on its odor, if it is stronger or smelled like wine, became watery, there are lumps forming, has unpleasant smell and has bubbles or molds in the surface. If some of these signs are present, better not use it anymore.

Now that you have an idea on the proper storage of the given sauces and seasonings, better check your cupboard. You may have put there the oyster sauce a couple of weeks ago. Happy eating! ^_________^