How to choose the right spices

A quality spice always has a strong, clean aroma. If you can barely smell anything when you open the jar, the product has likely gone stale or was stored incorrectly.

Check the ingredient list: a good spice shouldn't contain flavor enhancers (MSG), colorants or fillers. The shorter and clearer the ingredient list, the better.

Pay attention to color too — a dull or uneven color usually signals an old product. Fresh paprika should be bright red, and fresh turmeric a deep yellow-orange.

After buying, store spices in a dark, cool, dry place in a tightly sealed container — this keeps the aroma intact for months.