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Nowadays, people are opting for healthier options in terms of food ingredients. For instance, if you had the practice of consuming sugar as a sweetener, then being health conscious, you must have switched to natural sweetener alternatives like jaggery. Gur, or jaggery, is a traditional sweetener that holds a cherished place in various cuisines around the world.
Derived from the concentrated juice of sugarcane or palm trees, jaggery is unrefined and retains its natural mineral content. Its deep amber hue and rich, earthy flavour offer a unique sweetness that's accompanied by subtle hints of molasses and caramel. Jaggery is known not only for its sweetness but also for its potential health benefits.
Packed with essential minerals like iron, magnesium, and potassium, it provides a more nutrient-rich alternative to refined sugar. Widely used in both savoury and sweet dishes, jaggery adds depth and complexity to traditional recipes, making it a versatile and beloved ingredient that connects us to age-old culinary traditions.
However, with the ongoing rainy season, jaggery seems to absorb moisture from the air, providing a breeding place for fungus. Thus, it is important to store jaggery properly to avoid exposure to moisture and the environment in order to preserve the taste and texture. By following the tips for the storage of jaggery, you can conserve a large quantity even in the rainy season and enjoy its natural sweetness in various culinary endeavours. Take a look at the tips:
- Store In The Fridge
It is beneficial to keep jaggery in the fridge instead of on the countertop. During the monsoon, jaggery tends to absorb moisture, leading to it becoming sticky and potentially developing mould. Thus, refrigerating helps to mitigate these issues by creating a cooler and drier environment that prevents the jaggery from absorbing excess moisture. It is best to store the jaggery in steel containers that help prevent colour change, which generally happens when stored in a warmer place.
- Add Bay Leaves
Bay leaves possess natural repellent properties due to their strong, bitter aroma, which insects find unappealing. To increase the shelf life of jaggery and prevent the growth of bacteria, store it with bay leaves in an airtight container. The pleasant scent of bay leaves also imparts a subtle fragrance to the jaggery, enhancing its overall aroma.
- Store In Zip-Lock Bag
Storing jaggery in a zip-lock bag offers a practical and effective solution to keep it fresh and prevent moisture-related issues. Zip-lock bags provide an airtight seal that helps create a barrier against external moisture and air. By placing jaggery in a zip-lock bag and sealing it tightly, you can significantly reduce the chances of moisture infiltration while maintaining the jaggery's texture and flavour. This method also helps prevent any strong odours from the surroundings from affecting the jaggery. You can place this jaggery inside the fridge for extra safety.
- Wrap With Muslin Cloth
Storing jaggery in a muslin cloth is a traditional and effective approach that allows for proper air circulation while also preventing moisture-related issues. Muslin cloth provides a breathable yet protective covering for jaggery, allowing any excess moisture to evaporate and escape.
This helps maintain the jaggery's texture and prevents it from becoming sticky or developing mould. The porous nature of muslin fabric enables airflow, reducing the likelihood of condensation forming on the jaggery's surface. This method also prevents direct exposure to light and contaminants, which can impact the quality of the jaggery.
- Add Grains To Storage Containers
For a longer shelf life, wrap the jaggery and store it in between whole grains like wheat. Grains absorb the moisture that gets developed in containers, thus helping it to stay for a long time, even during monsoons. The grains also offer a layer of protection against direct exposure to air and light, which can adversely affect the jaggery's texture and flavour.
