Melba's Jammin' wrote:
> A) Say you're going to try a blend, herb, or spice you've never used
> before. Are you likely to purchase the small plastic pot or the
> next-size-up glass jar? In terms of cost alone, the glass jar is more
> economical.
>
> B) How do you purchase the seasoning (blend, spice, or herb) that you
> use ONLY one or two times each year? Small plastic pot, mentioned glass
> jar, or from another source entirely where you can purchase only the
> amount you'll need for the recipe.
>
> For me and my house:
>
> A) I buy the small plastic pot on the theory that if I've got it
> around for too long, it's lost something and is no economy if I pitch
> it. If it has proven to be a popular item, next time I'll likely get
> the larger jar unless it's been more than about 12 months (I mark the
> jar with purchase date) since the purchase.
>
> B) The only spice that comes to mind for me is cardamom. I may make a
> cardamom bread at Christmastime. It's the only thing I use cardamom in
> and I buy the tablespoon I need at my local food co-op where I can
> purchase any quantity I want. And do,
>


If I;m trying something for the first time, I'll buy the smallest
amount, in the most disposable container, Unless I am pretty sure I will
like it, then I'll buy the small glass jar. But I don't use Penzeys
very often. We have a couple of Asian markets where I can buy spices in
bulk. I bring them home and put some of them in a small jar to use and
the rest I put in mason jars with the wide mouth. Then I use the jar
Foodsaver attachment and suck them empty. That will keep them in great
shape for a long time. I usually refill my jars about once a month or
every other month. What I like to do with Penzeys catalog is get ideas
for mixes and combinations and try to make something at home similar. If
I like it, I'll note that and it's a keeper. But we aren't much into
pre-made combos or mixes. That usually takes place in or on the food.

Melondy