Lentils are a unique representative of the legume family, since it contains as much protein as in a serving of meat. It is gaining more and more popularity among domestic hostesses, and the question often arises - how long can it be stored and what to do if it has expired. In this article you will learn all the features of storing this product so that your dishes are always tasty and fresh.
How much lentil is stored
Experts agree that its average shelf life is 10 months. It is not possible to determine this exactly, since the packaging usually does not indicate the collection period, but only the packaging period. Based on this, it is recommended not to keep lentils longer than 6 months. Under the right storage conditions, it can remain fresh and edible for up to one year.
Did you know? Lentils were one of the first plants grown by humans along with wheat, barley and peas.
Dry
When dry, lentils can retain freshness for as long as possible. This is the best storage method, since moisture is the main cause of rotting and oxidation of grains, as a result of which an unpleasant smell and plaque are likely. The expiration date of dry cereals is best checked on the packaging, but in general it should not exceed 12 months.
Boiled
Boiled, this cereal can be edible for up to a week and only in the refrigerator. It is best to use it in the first 3-4 days. If it is frozen in the freezer, then the shelf life can be increased up to 6 months.
Important! After defrosting, lentils will change the consistency, but the taste should remain the same.
Red
Red lentils can remain fresh for up to 12 months. At the same time, it must be stored in a dark and dry place.
Green
The shelf life of green lentils is the same as red lentils, but this variety has one feature - it brightens with time. Therefore, it should only be in a dark place.
Is it possible to eat expired lentils
The answer to this common question is quite simple - you can. Indeed, if the deadline came a few months ago, cereals can still be eaten. The main condition is long processing. Such a product requires longer cooking, but the result may be slightly worse than if a fresh product was prepared. Expired cereals can be stiffer and contain less nutrients.
Important - before using expired cereals, you need to carefully examine it. Any plaque or the presence of insects indicates that it is impossible to cook such a product and it is better to get rid of it immediately.
Conditions and methods of storage at home
- In order to maximize the shelf life of the product and maintain its freshness and quality, it is necessary to observe certain conditions:
- The room must be ventilated, the air must not stagnate.
- There should not be access to open sunlight, the darker the place, the better.
- Humidity should be moderate (up to 14%).
- Lentils should be dry.
- There should be no heat sources nearby.
- Cardboard boxes or cloth bags are best for storing cereals.
Important! Plastic bags and glass jars are not suitable for placing cereals. They accumulate moisture well.
Keeping dry cereals in the refrigerator is not recommended. Freezing will significantly extend its suitability for food only in boiled form.
- A signal to the fact that the cereal is no longer subject to storage, are the following signs:
- unpleasant odors of dampness or rot;
- grains stuck together (a sign of high humidity during storage);
- a raid appeared on the grains.
Such a product can not be eaten, otherwise it can significantly harm your health. Now you know how to properly and for how long to keep this healthy and nutritious product - lentils at home. Be careful, and food will always delight you with freshness.
