Curry powder, like most spices, should be stored in a cool, dry, dark place in airtight containers. Glass jars with tight-sealing lids are a great choice.
Avoid storing spices near heat, light, or moisture, as these can all decrease the potency of the spices over time. This means you should avoid storing them near the stove, oven, dishwasher, or any other heat-generating kitchen appliances. Also, don’t store them in the refrigerator because the condensation can lead to moisture buildup.
Keep in mind that even when stored properly, curry powder and other spices don’t remain potent indefinitely. Ground spices like curry powder typically stay fresh for about 2-3 years. After this, they won’t necessarily go bad or make you sick, but they will lose flavor. Regularly replacing your spices can ensure you’re always cooking with the most flavorful ingredients.
It’s also a good practice to buy spices in amounts that you’ll use within a few months, so they don’t sit around losing flavor. If you use curry powder infrequently, consider buying smaller amounts more often, rather than a large quantity at once.
Lastly, always use a dry spoon when measuring out your curry powder, and don’t sprinkle it directly from the container into a steaming pot. Both of these practices can introduce moisture into the spice container, which can lead to clumping and flavor loss.
