How do you dry herbs?
We've had a container-based herb garden on our deck all summer, which has been wonderful. Unfortunately, the weather is predicted to hit freezing in the next week or so, and now I'm looking for ways to preserve as much as possible from the garden. I'll see if I have any luck moving the pots indoors and keeping them growing, but I'd like to trim the plants back and dry the herbs as I move them.
So... how do I dry herbs? Of course the goal is still cooking with them, so I'm concerned about food-safe handling. But honestly, I've never dried herbs, and have no idea how to approach this.
Best Answer
One of the most memorable times I've seen someone dry herbs was Alton Brown on Good Eats: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y5GkD2GQ3Tg
He creates this large contraption with A/C filters and a box fan... I've never tried it myself, but it was fun to watch.
I typcially do it with a food dehydrator like this one: http://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/product.asp?SKU=14099344
I would just get one with multiple temp settings as you don't want to cook the herbs (in the dehydrator).
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Quick Answer about "How do you dry herbs?"
Drying is the easiest method of preserving herbs. Simply expose the leaves, flowers or seeds to warm, dry air. Leave the herbs in a well ventilated area until the moisture evaporates. Sun drying is not recommended because the herbs can lose flavor and color.How do you dry herbs quickly?
Store in airtight containers Glass keeps aromas in. Herbs must be completely dry or they mold. Store in a cool, dry, dark area, away from light and heat. Dried herbs keep their flavor and color three months in cupboards and up to one year in refrigerators or freezers.What is the best way to preserve fresh herbs?
You can definitely give the herbs a wash in cool water prior to drying, just be sure to gently shake off the excess moisture, and remove any wilted leaves, spots, insects, or other unsavory elements. I find air drying to be the easiest method and this can be accomplished in a few different ways.Do you wash herbs before drying?
How to Dry Fresh HerbsNever Use an Oven or Dehydrator to Dry Herbs Again With This Century Old Method
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Answer 2
a) Separate the fresh herbs into small bunches and hang them up next to each other as done for washed clothes. Make sure to hang the bunches upside down. They should get plenty of air flow but NO rain, humid and direct sunlight.
b) Bunches or separated branches can be placed over a grid for drying and again plenty of air flow but NO rain, humid and direct sunligt. Changing bunches other way round time to time speeds up drying and prevents bunches getting mould.
A bunch of dry herb is also a nice decorative object that helps to create a healthy environment in the house!
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Images: Yan Krukov, Yan Krukov, Pixabay, lilartsy