Drying herbs: the method to preserve them all year round
Aromatic herbs have been widely used in cooking for centuries. This is because they can be preserved over time thanks to the
drying process.
But let’s take it step by step.
Aromatic herbs are often used to add flavor to many recipes, and for this reason, many decide to grow them at home or outdoors directly in the ground. Obviously, to do this in the best possible way, it’s necessary to know the characteristics of the aromatic plant you want to grow . In fact, some of them go into dormancy during the coldest season until early spring . So, that’s exactly why you can start the drying process so you can use them throughout the seasons.
On this page, you can find out how to dry your own herbs and choose the method that best suits your needs.
In fact, you can choose to dry your herbs in the oven, on a wood stove , or using electric dryers . Alternatively, you can also choose to collect the twigs and hang them upside down on a wire so they can dry completely naturally .
If you want to know the best and easiest way to do this, just read below.
Drying herbs: Discover the easiest way to preserve them all year round
Before we begin, it’s important to emphasize that the best time to dry your herbs is when they’re about to flower . However, even at this favorable time, we should never overdo it, but rather exercise discretion.
In fact, you need to select the largest leaves and those that are placed highest . You also need to do the same thing when picking twigs and placing them upside down . To do a good job, you have to pick them from the top, never from the base.
Herbs that can be processed upside down include rosemary , lavender , thyme , oregano , and mint . It’s also important to avoid bundling too many twigs together, as this can prevent air from circulating properly, which could lead to mold formation. Such an epilogue would clearly compromise the drying process.
Therefore, it is necessary to place the twigs where there is good air circulation and, in addition, they should be placed away from direct sunlight .
During this process , it’s important to prevent dust from forming on the herbs . So, cover everything with a cloth , such as muslin, to ensure good air circulation. Don’t forget that this process will take between 7 and 10 days . These days will be used by the plant to shed all the water it contains.
Another simple technique is drying herbs on racks . This task should be done in the comfort of a room in your home. To do this, take a mosquito net, which is commonly used for mosquito netting, and make individual bunks or trays. Place your herbs on these trays to dry.
You can also do this by drying everything in the oven at the lowest temperature and leaving the door slightly open at all times. This will prevent moisture from forming.
Don’t forget to turn the herbs over from time to time so they dry evenly.
Once your herbs are dry, you can place them in airtight glass containers and then keep them sealed and then place them in the cupboard.
Good luck with your work.
