Ok thanks. I got that right then. I guessed. So do you always buy the packets? Or do you buy the larger containers?
I've done both, but with the packets, I feel we have more control. I mean, once I open the big pack, I have to put it in a container, and then what if I don't take care of it properly. Whereas with the packets, if one goes bad, the rest are safe
I use a big container of yeast. It can be stored anywhere until it's open and then after that I store it in the fridge. I'm using one right now that I've had open for probably 3 months and it still works fine. It's a lot cheaper that way. Amy
I also buy the large containers. I get a rather large bag. I will pour some of it into a container in my refridge, and the rest I put in the freezer. The individual packages are rather expensive.
I have only used the packets but I think I will try the large container next time. I don't need more yeast yet though. I do however need more bread flour. I used the last of mine today. I think I will get white and wheat next.
I also use the large containers. If you plan to make bread on a regular basis, this is much cheaper in the long run.
It is ok to put yeast in the fridge, or should we dry store it in the cabinet? I have ours in the air tight food storage container.
My container says the yeast needs to be in the fridge once opened. I think it keeps the yeast from dying too soon. I know to much heat or humidity can kill yeast. But I have used yeast kept on the shelves and it worked alright but not as good as the yeast in the fridge. I know it dies faster on the shelf.
I buy my yeast in the larger jars and store it in the freezer after I open it. This keeps it nice and fresh and whenever I'm ready for it it's waiting!
Jen, the yeast will stay fresher longer in the fridge. It will stay indefinately in the freezer. That's why I keep most of mine there. After too long, yeast WILL lose its "rising power". If you're ever unsure, "proof" your yeast first. Mix it with a half-cup of flour, sugar, and hot (about 120°) water. Let it sit a while and see if it gets spongy. If so, use that with your bread (remembering you've already added the water, etc. to it!) If not, throw it out.
Jackie you beat me to it. I am really rough on my yeast. I buy it in the big bag thing. (it looks like the freeze dried coffee packs or something) then I put it in the freezer with a clothes pin holding it shut. You are "suppose" to let it come to room temp before you use it. But I don't. I just use it straight from the freezer and I haven't had any problems with it yet. It might be because I have kids and don't get to do anything in sitting without being interrupted I have the same bag I have had since the begining of last winter. I didn't get to bake this winter like I normally do.
I have to chime in here. I get yeast in the big bag because I use it in my septic tank as well as baking. It is the best septic treatment you can do. cheaper too.
I'm so glad you brought this up! I've been paying around $4.50 for a smallish jar of yeast...4 oz., I think. I was at BJ's the other day and saw a big double-brick pack (I think it equaled a pound?) of yeast for the same price! I was floored. I was wondering if I could freeze it...how great to know I can. I go through a jar every couple of months so this is another small way to help save money. Thanks!
I never thought about freezing yeast. I will have to do that! I have never seen big bags of yeast so I will have to look for those too. For those that need to know how much one packet is for a recipe that calls for packages of yeast, 1 package of yeast equals 2 and 1/4 teaspoon. Most of mine call for packages and I would get so frustrated trying to figure out how much that was, so I looked it up and wrote it down! :lol:
