In terms of versatility, glass jars have made an impact on every generation in one way or another. From the early centuries, it was used as a container for coins, traps for fireflies, lanterns, rudimentary explosives, etc., and even now, it has evolved into a storage center that can be used to store different items in the home.
Large glass jars with lids come with numerous benefits, from preserving the lifespan of your food to keeping your food fresh and flavorful, protecting it from pests. In this article, we will be showing you six ways you can repurpose those empty jars you have left discarded to store food in your pantry or kitchen.
5 Ways to Use Large Glass Jars with Lids for Food Storage
● Dry Goods
One of the quickest ways for your dry condiments to lose their freshness and get soggy is when they come into close contact with water. When stored in plastic, there are slim chances of it escaping anything liquid, but when you store your dry ingredients like flour, sugar, rice, etc. in these jars, the airtight seal of the large glass jars helps to prevent moisture and pests from seeping in.
● Pasta and Grains
Pasta can also be stored in glass jars. If you are someone who is very deliberate about portion control and would not want to cook all your pasta at once, you can store your pasta and grains in large glass jars, keeping them organized and fresh.
● Spices
Empty jam jars are the most suitable type of container for this. Their airtight features allow the whole spices or ground spice blends to maintain their flavor and aroma. Apart from that, it prevents moisture from entering the spice so that it doesn’t get wet and lumpy.
● Nuts and seeds
The best storage container to keep your raisins and cashew nuts in is a glass jar. Nuts like almonds, walnuts, sunflower seeds, and chia seeds stay fresh and crunchy in glass jars. Studies show that storing your nuts in a cool and dark place keeps them for as long as 6–12 months, and glass jars serve as the most suitable containers for this.
● Pickles and preserves
Large glass jars with lids can be used to store homemade pickles, jams, and preserves. It also adds a certain aesthetic to your preserves, as it gives them a clean and attractive look.
Creative Ways to Use Glass Jars in the Kitchen
It's been said that glass jars are very versatile and purposeful; hence, they can be used to store different food items; even that old empty jam jar lying in your cupboard is not an exception, however, your food storage doesn't have to look bland and boring.
With these tips, you are on your way to transforming the outlook of your food items.
● Label and organize properly
Have different sections for different foods. For instance, Segment A can contain your condiments, while Segment B can be for snacks. Label the jars with the contents and date for easy identification.
● Choose the right container
Empty jam jars are suitable for storing spices and nuts, while large glass jars with lids are best for storing pickles. Choose what works best for your food.
● Check for broken seals
Finally, study the jars well to ensure that they don't have cracks or brittles so that they can serve their purpose well.
Conclusion
From understanding the essence of glass jars to looking at the various ways in which they can be used for food storage, this article covers the best ways glass jars with lids can be used in your kitchen, along with creative tips on how to make them organized and aesthetically appealing to others.
With this information, you can make good use of those empty glass jars lying around. Good luck!
FAQ’s
● Is it safe to store pickles in empty jam jars?
For long-lasting, fresh pickles, your best bet is a jam jar. Why? Jam Jars are made from glass, which are nonreactive containers that are BPA-free, retain quality, and ensure that no toxic chemicals enter your food.
● Can you store glass jars in the freezer?
Most often than not, it is common knowledge that keeping glass jars in the freezer would cause them to break or crack; however, there are some types of glass that are freezer-friendly, e.g., jars with tapered sides.
● Are large glass jars with lids airtight?
Yeah, in fact, it aids long-term storage of your product as it prevents spoilage, preserves freshness, and reduces waste. But to make the most of it, check the type of lid and seal, as some are tighter than others.