Storing beans & pasta

by Marsha
(USA)

Hello, I was told by a friend to freeze my pasta and red beans to get rid of any unwanted pests that might be brewing in the bags so I did.

Now I want to put them in jars for storage but they will be damp from being in the freezer. Here is my question.

Can I dry these like on the dining room table maybe with a fan before putting them in the jars or do I have to have something like Mylar bags and oxygen absorbers?

ANSWER

Hi Marsha,

I have heard of putting flour in the freezer to kill the weevil eggs, but have never heard of doing that with pasta and beans.

It's true that they need to be thoroughly dry before storing or mold will be your next problem.

If you are planning to store the beans long term, then, yes, definitely put them in Mylar bags, with oxygen absorbers, in plastic buckets.

But here's how to store beans (or grains) and keep the bugs out for next time, or incorporate it this time, just to be sure.

1. Store in clean & dry plastic or glass and they must have an airtight seal.

2. Pour about half of your supply of one type of grain or bean into an empty container. Drop a dried chili pepper in the middle. Cover it up with the remainder of the grains or beans. Replace the airtight lid.

3. If you use your beans and grains, be careful not to scoop out the chili pepper. For long term storage, just leave it in. The heat and scent are what keep the pests away, but the pepper does not affect the flavor of dried beans and grains.

As for the pasta, it can be stored for up to 2 years in the container it comes in from the store at room temperature in your cupboard or pantry. If you live in an area where humidity is high, it might be worthwhile to store it in the freezer permanently and just take out what you need for cooking.

Thank you for your questions.

Joan