About Chef Glen L. Davis II Expertise I am familiar with a wide array of herbs/spices and techniques from around the world. I can answer questions about how to use spices/herbs, both classical and modern applications; I can also answer questions about substitution and application of herbs/spices.
Experience I Have worked as a chef for about 14 years and have written over 400 original recipes.
Organizations Virginia Chefs Association
Publications V.I.M.S. Sustainable Resources Symposium Cook Book 2004
The Free Lance Star
The Richmond Times Dispatch
Education/Credentials I attended J. Sergeant Reynolds CC where I majored in Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management.
Awards and Honors Virginia Chefs Association "Jr Iron Chef"
Spices & Seasonings - How can you tell that a spice/seasoning has gone 'bad' or degraded?
Expert: Chef Glen L. Davis II - 12/23/2008
Question My Dad has an old spice/seasoning rack in his kitchen he never uses. I kinda forgot about it until I was cleaning the kitchen. Since I'm kinda getting into cooking, I was wondering how can you tell whether a spice/seasoning has "gone bad" or degraded.
Answer EXCELLENT QUESTION!
First off, spices and herbs don't "spoil" they way other food will (if they are dried). Generally speaking, when a spice is "past it's prime" it will simply loose it's taste and smell. This is because the "essential oil's" that flavor them have probably either escaped or degraded to the point of actually changing on a molecular level. The easiest way I know of to check if a spice or herb is still good, place a small amount in the palm of your hand, then grind with the thumb of the opposite hand. If the spice or herb still has a "strong" smell (that you would commonly associate wit that herb/spice), then it is still OK to cook with. Some spices can last for YEARS, if they are in their "whole" form, commonly this would include cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, clove and cardamom. Personally, I have a container of whole "white paper" cardamom that my grandfather bought in the 80's, and it still has AMAZING flavor. Use your nose, eyes, and taste-buds. If it doesn't seem right to any of those senses, toss it, better to be safe and "air on the side of caution".
Hope this helps answer your question, please let me know if there is anything else I can assist you with! MERRY CHRISTMAS!
