Herbs are best when fresh, and, therefore, mastering the art of preserving the freshness and vitality of the herbs is an art for survival and well-being.
You can only do so much to make the garden herbs appear dewy and youthful. The goal is to put some conscious efforts into retaining the freshness and essential oils of the garden herbs. While many prefer the widely-opted air drying process—a slow and effective way to suck out moisture content, thankfully, you have other convenient ways at disposal.
Growing garden herbs is a rewarding activity with a plethora of advantages, and growing these herbs reduces the reliance on market produced and cheaper quality products—leaves almost on the verge of wilting away.
Homegrown herbs are fresher and more delish than store-bought ones, enhancing the taste and utility of the herbs.
Herbs like basil, mint, and parsley are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and other beneficial compounds. Growing them facilitates better accessibility.
Having herbs readily available in your garden or kitchen means you can easily add them to your meals without a trip to the store. It also saves a few pennies.
Herb gardens can be beautiful, adding greenery and sensuous exuberance to your home.
Besides, gardening being a therapeutic hobby, herbs serve a plethora of therapeutic purposes: digestive health, pain, weakened immunity, stress and anxiety, and respiratory health.
Drying garden herbs is a great way to preserve their flavour and extend their shelf life. Here are five tips to effectively dry your garden herbs:
Rinse herbs lightly with cool water to remove any dirt or insects. Shake off excess water and pat dry with a paper towel or use a salad spinner. Discard any bruised, yellowed, or damaged leaves to ensure only the best quality herbs are dried.
There are quite a few drying methods, besides air drying, you can try depending on your time and skills.
Gather small bunches of herbs and tie them together with string or rubber bands. Herbs with higher water content would do better in small and loose bundles with proper air circulation between the branches.
Hang the bundles upside down in a warm, dry, well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight.
Place herbs in a single layer on dehydrator trays. Set the dehydrator to a low temperature (95-115°F or 35-46°C) and check frequently until dry.
Spread herbs on a baking sheet and place in an oven set to the lowest temperature (ideally around 110°F or 43°C) with the door slightly ajar.
Simply storing the herbs in airtight containers does wonders. The task can be accomplished even with zipped plastic bags. In the end, the herbs retain the essence till you crush and use them. Make sure not to can mouldy or rotting herbs as the condition only worsens.
Herbs are properly dried when they crumble easily between your fingers. It is crucial to store the containers in a cool and moisture-free spot, away from direct sunlight. Experts are in favour of amber-hued pots that are specifically designed to resist sunlight. Monitor the drying process closely to avoid over-drying, which can alter the flavour and colour.
Store dried herbs in airtight containers such as glass jars or vacuum-sealed bags.
Keep the containers in a cool, dark place to preserve the herbs' flavour and potency.
Label the containers with the herb name and the date of drying. This would help you to determine the shelf life as well.
By following these tips, you can successfully dry your garden herbs and enjoy their flavours and benefits long after the growing season has bid adieu.
