Bangladesh is warm and humid for most of the year, which is hard on dates and nuts. A few simple habits keep them tasting the way they did on the day you opened the box.
Dates
Move them from the pouch into an airtight box. Firm dates like Ajwa and Mabroom keep for several months in a cool cupboard. Soft dates like Sukkari and Mazafati are best in the fridge once opened. A white bloom on the skin is usually natural sugar coming to the surface.
Nuts
Nuts contain oil, and oil goes stale in heat and light. Keep them in a glass jar away from the stove, or in the fridge if you buy a large pack. If a nut smells like paint or tastes bitter, it has gone stale.
Dry fruits
Figs, apricots and raisins keep well in an airtight jar. If they dry out, soak them in warm water for a few minutes before using.
Buying for the month
Family packs cost less per kilo, but only if you store them well. Split a large pack into smaller jars so you open one at a time.
