Why You Should Replace Last Year's Thanksgiving Spices

Cooking Thanksgiving dinner is quite an undertaking, even for experienced chefs. On top of making sure the turkey thaws out on time, the side dishes need to be prepared, and dinner isn't complete without dessert. While each component requires a specific set of ingredients, every part of the dinner requires spices. Spices add flavor to everything from vegetables to poultry to pie. There's no doubt that when it comes to preparing a delicious holiday meal, having the right spices is key.

According to UPB, dried spices have a more intense flavor than fresh, making them ideal to use in cooking and baking. Since the flavor is stronger, you can get away with using less than if the spices or herbs were fresh. Many spices are sold in two varieties: whole or ground. The major difference is that whole spices stay fresher longer, and can be used sparingly when needed (per The Chopping Block). However, ground spices can be used right from the jar without the need to first grind the spices. 

When using dried spices, there are some tips and tricks to get the most flavor from the spices. One method is to bloom spices, which involves toasting or heating the spices before use. Another often overlooked trick is to use new spices, especially when cooking a meal like Thanksgiving where everything is dependent on flavor.

If you're being honest with yourself, when was the last time you purchased new spices? If you've ever purchased bulk spices at Costco, the answer is probably far too long. According to Huff Post, it's a good idea to replace your spices, especially if the spices are past the best-buy date. Dried spices lose flavor over time, and Thanksgiving is definitely not the meal where you want your dishes to lack flavor. If you're hesitant to toss the spices out, Isaac Toups, owner of Toups' Meatery, suggests giving the spices a quick smell or taste to see if they've retained their potency.

If you're not in a position to purchase all new spices, there is a solution to help revive old spices. All you need to do is take the old spices, pour them into a dry pan, and lightly toast the spices until their aromas are released (per Pioneer Woman). One thing to be wary of is burning the spices, as that could release an acrid, bitter flavor. If the spices won't be used right away, make sure to let them cool before storing them (per Huff Post).