By Ujjainee Roy
October 3, 2024
Gram flour, also known as besan, is a popular ingredient in Indian cuisine, used for making dishes like pakoras, chillas, and sweets such as laddoos. However, like most flours, it is susceptible to spoilage if not stored properly. To maintain its freshness, it's essential to protect it from moisture, pests, and odors. Here are six effective ways to keep your gram flour fresh.
Always transfer gram flour from its original packaging to an airtight container. This will prevent moisture and air from spoiling the flour and protect it from pests. Glass or stainless steel containers work best for long-term storage.
Store gram flour in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight. Excessive heat and humidity can cause the flour to spoil quickly and can attract weevils or other pests.
If you live in a humid area or do not use gram flour frequently, storing it in the refrigerator can significantly extend its shelf life. Make sure the container is airtight to prevent the flour from absorbing odors from other foods.
Bay leaves are a natural repellent for insects. Place a few bay leaves in the container with gram flour to deter pests like weevils from infesting it.
Before storing, sieve the gram flour to remove any lumps or impurities. This step ensures the flour remains fresh and usable for longer, and it prevents any moisture build-up.
Make it a habit to check your gram flour for spoilage signs like musty smells, clumping, or discoloration. If the flour shows any of these signs, discard it immediately to avoid food contamination.