What’s the best way to store spices? How can you keep your produce fresh? If you’ve ever had these questions, you’re not alone. We turned to some professional chefs for their top food storage tips, all of which are budget-friendly, costing $18 or less.
Chef-Approved Food Storage Tools
- BuleVina Ceramic Garlic Keeper
To keep garlic fresh, skip the fridge. Janice Carte, a personal chef, recommends a ceramic garlic keeper. It’s both stylish and functional, ensuring your garlic stays at its best. Those dark ceramic pots help keep garlic dry and free from light.
- Eonjoe 2-Ounce Glass Dressing Containers
When you need smaller storage solutions, these glass containers are perfect. Janice suggests using them for salad dressings, dips, or snacks. They’re easy to pack for lunches or outings, making them very versatile.
- Patelai Silicone Umbrella Cup Covers
These fun silicone lids can cover cups and glasses, keeping your drinks safe from bugs and dirt, especially outdoors. They also come in handy for covering leftovers, minimizing waste and reducing the need for plastic wrap.
- Aozita 14-Piece Glass Spice Jars with Labels
Karishma Pradhan, a recipe developer, loves these spice jars for their organization. They come with pre-labeled and blank stickers, making it easy to identify your spices. This is especially great if you create your own blends, as you can label them however you like.
- Ball 32-Ounce Mason Jar with Lids
Generations of cooks trust mason jars. Pradhan highlights their usefulness for storing a variety of ingredients, like grains and syrups. Plus, they can double as stylish cocktail glasses.
- Stasher Premium Silicone Reusable Food Storage Bag
Chef Shawna Clark swears by Stasher bags for their versatility. These bags are safe for the freezer and microwave, making them ideal for everything from marinating chicken to storing leftovers. They’re a practical, eco-friendly choice that can be reused time and again.
Why Good Storage Matters
Proper food storage doesn’t just keep your ingredients fresh; it also reduces waste. A study from the USDA notes that nearly 40% of food in the U.S. goes uneaten, often due to spoilage. By investing in good storage tools, you can save money and help the environment.
Trends in Food Storage
Social media trends show that more people are focusing on sustainability. Many are sharing tips on using reusable storage options, like silicone bags, instead of single-use plastics. This shift is not just a trend; it’s becoming a lifestyle choice for many home cooks.
Conclusion
Investing in simple, effective food storage tools can make a big difference in your kitchen. With expert advice and affordable options, it’s easier to keep your food fresh and flavorful. For more insights, check resources like the USDA’s Food Waste Challenge to learn how you can help reduce food waste in your home.