How to Dry Fresh Herbs
Drying herbs works best by hanging them in small, loose bundles in a warm, dark, and well-ventilated space until the leaves crumble at the touch. Airflow is more important than heat; without it, the moisture trapped inside will turn the leaves black or moldy before they can dry.
Wait for the morning dew to vanish.
Harvest your herbs after the sun has dried the morning moisture but before the heat of the afternoon causes them to wilt. Clean, dry leaves ensure the preservation process begins without rot.
- Kitchen twine
- Paper bags
- Scissors
The Paper Bag Method
Poking holes in a paper bag and loosely tying it over the hanging bundle protects the herbs from dust and light while allowing air to circulate, preserving the volatile oils that hold the flavor.
The method.
Clean and bundle
Gently shake the herbs to remove dirt or insects. Gather 5 to 10 stems into a small bundle and tie the base tightly with kitchen twine, as the stems will shrink while drying.
Protect the bundle
Slide a paper bag over the bundle, securing it to the stems. If the herbs are particularly oily, use a toothpick to poke a dozen holes in the bag for better ventilation.
Hang to cure
Suspend the bundle upside down in a room with steady airflow, away from direct sunlight. A pantry or a dry, airy corner works better than a humid kitchen.
Test for readiness
After one week, check the leaves. They are ready when they feel brittle and snap off the stem cleanly. If they bend or feel leathery, give them another few days.
When it doesn't go to plan.
Reserve woody herbs like rosemary and thyme for hanging, as their low moisture content makes them very reliable.
Soft herbs like basil or cilantro have high water content and are prone to molding; they are often better preserved by freezing in oil.
Store the dried leaves whole in airtight glass jars and crush them only when you are ready to cook to keep the oils potent.
The ones that keep coming up.
Can I use an oven to speed this up?
You can, but it is easy to cook the herbs instead of drying them. Keep the oven on the lowest possible setting with the door propped open and watch them every five minutes.
How long do dried herbs last?
Stored in a cool, dark place, they will remain potent for up to a year. If they lose their color, they have likely lost their flavor.
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