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Be it halwa or upma, semolina is a popular ingredient found in the Indian kitchen. Popularly known as suji or rava, semolina is made from durum wheat and is a good source of protein. It is perfect for those undergoing the weight loss process.
Owing to its versatility, people often tend to store semolina in large quantities. However, semolina can lead to various problems like moisture absorption, clumping, loss of flavour, and staleness. Also, before storing semolina, it is important to ensure that you’re storing a fresh batch. For the packaged semolina, look for packaging dates and check the texture for any signs of dryness or any visible signs of spoilage. Selecting fresh semolina enables a longer shelf life.
Even though all the precautions are taken, worms often take shelter in the semolina. Thus, to take care of this issue, we have collated certain homely tips that will enable the worms and bugs to stay away from semolina and increase the shelf life for at least one year. Take a look:
- Dry Roast Method
The best and most simple way to store semolina is to dry roast it. After roasting it, cool it and transfer it to a jar. Dry roasting helps remove excess moisture, which prevents clumping. Whenever you need it, take the desired amount and keep the rest away.
- Add Cinnamon
Bugs and worms do not like the smell of cinnamon. Besides, the spice contains eugenol, a chemical compound commonly found in insect repellent. It prevents bugs and worms from growing in semolina. You can spread the semolina on a dry pan and add cinnamon. Roast it for 2-3 minutes and turn off the flame. Let it cool, and then transfer it to a glass jar.
- Bay Leaf
Bugs and worms hate the pungent scent of bay leaves. To prevent worms and bugs from growing within semolina, include two bay leaves while storing it in a jar.
- Airtight Container
Be it glass or any other metal, storing semolina in an airtight container prevents the entry of moisture from the atmosphere. If there is moisture inside the container, semolina will spoil easily.
- Refrigeration
Owing to its high protein content, semolina is prone to rapid spoilage. Storing it in a cool, dry refrigerator helps prevent the growth of worms and bugs in it. The insects hate the cold; thus, they fail to survive in the refrigerator.
