The Most Common Mistake You’re Making with Your Dried Herbs and Spices

Herbs and spices are the heart of any great recipe, adding layers of flavor that elevate a dish. From sweet to savory, we rely on favorites like cinnamon, Italian seasoning, chili powder, cumin, oregano, and countless others to bring our meals to life.

But how many of us let our aromatic ingredients sit around too long, or fail to use them to their full potential? And how many times have we wasted money on spices that end up tossed out because they’ve lost their potency?

These thoughts crossed my mind recently as I found myself tapping the bottom of a brand-new jar of powdered ginger, struggling to get it to pour. I promised myself I wouldn’t let it cake up and get stuck, like so many before it. Then it hit me: shaking the jars directly over hot, steaming pots is what’s causing the issue.

I know better, but the truth is, cooking in a busy kitchen is full of distractions. Between running back and forth from the stove, helping with homework, washing dishes, and everything else, I toss seasonings into whatever’s cooking without much thought. That is, until now.

Why You Should Avoid Shaking Spice Jars Over Pots and Pans

Spices are sensitive little ingredients, easily affected by their surroundings. That’s why we store them safely in cabinets and drawers, taking them out only when needed. Exposure to heat, moisture, air, and light can reduce their potency and flavor. Shaking spice jars over steaming food is a common mistake because it introduces these damaging elements. Steam brings moisture, which can cause dried herbs and spices to clump, lose their freshness, or even become a breeding ground for bacteria. This compromises both the flavor of your dishes and the shelf life of your spices.

How to Keep Your Spices from Clumping and Hardening

Fortunately, avoiding this issue is simple—I just need to remind myself more often. Instead of shaking jars directly over hot pots, use spoons, small bowls, or even your hand to measure out spices before adding them. This helps avoid moisture and heat exposure, and also allows you to better control the amount you're using.

As always, store your dried herbs and spices in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, and in airtight containers. It’s also helpful to label your bottles with purchase dates to monitor their freshness. Under these conditions, spices typically last for up to six months.

A simple habit change can make a huge impact. While shaking spice jars over hot, steaming pots might seem like a minor act, avoiding it will help keep your herbs and spices more aromatic and flavorful for longer. Your spice rack will definitely appreciate it.