March week 4: spices!

This week(end) we are gathering our spices. Spices are important to have because they add flavor and variety to our food. When purchasing spices for storage, it is important to look at the shelf life! Spices will stay fresher in the freezer than they will on the shelf. Once they are opened, they loose their flavors much quicker than if they stay sealed. So, purchasing the huge bottle of italian seasoning at the local warehouse club may not be the best thing when, 3 months down the road it is flavorless. If you choose to go that route, separate the spice into smaller containers that you can freeze. You can also buy spices at the dollar store that will store on the shelf. Good luck!

Spices:
Pepper
Taco seasoning
Cinnamon
Ginger
Chili powder
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Season Salt
Paprika
Oregano
Basil
Thyme
Dill
Nutmeg
Cloves
Dry mustard
Cream of tartar
etc....

March week 3: Baking mixes

I'm such a slacker. My weeks are going by 2 at a time it seems. Anyway, for those of you who stocked up your first-aid and medicine chests in January, you can move on to this week's item: Baking mixes.

I make a lot of things from scratch, but sometimes it is nice to have quick mixes on hand. During times of hardship, having something comforting, like brownies or cookies, can keep the kids from feeling insecure. (yeah, I know. I shouldn't comfort with food, BUT it truly makes a difference when there is no money or a disaster.)

Baking mixes:
Boxed Cake mix
gelatin
pudding
pre-made cookie mixes
muffin mixes
pre-made potato mixes
pre-made box mixes for side dishes, dinners, etc.

Because these things are typically in cardboard boxes, it is VERY important to keep these in a cool, dry place. A plastic tote is excellent, because you can stack a TON of mixes in a small space. Most of these items will also have expiration dates. This is because there are oils and leavening in the mixes that will no longer work if left too long.

Good luck!
Next week: spices