Preserving Fresh Herbs in Honey
Submerge fresh, dry herbs in mild honey to infuse the flavor and extend their usable life. This method works best for woody herbs like thyme or rosemary, creating a pantry staple that deepens in flavor the longer it sits.
Moisture is the enemy
Any water left on your herbs will introduce bacteria and spoil the jar. Ensure your herbs are bone-dry and your glass jar is sterilized and completely moisture-free before you begin.
- Small glass jar with airtight lid
- Paper towels
- Clean kitchen towel
What goes in.
- 1 cupraw, liquid honey
- 3-4 sprigsfresh woody herbs (thyme, rosemary, or sage)
The importance of the soak
Honey draws the water out of the herbs through osmosis. By keeping the jar in a cool, dark place, you allow the oils to permeate the honey slowly without fermenting.
The method.
Dry the herbs
Wash the herbs and pat them down with paper towels, then leave them spread out on a clean kitchen towel for several hours. They must be completely dry to the touch.
Pack the jar
Place the herb sprigs into the clean glass jar. If they are too long, trim them so they stay well below the rim.
Pour the honey
Slowly pour the honey over the herbs, ensuring they are fully submerged. Leave a small gap of space at the top of the jar before sealing the lid.
Store and cure
Place the jar in a cupboard away from direct sunlight. Turn the jar upside down once every few days for the first two weeks to ensure the herbs remain coated.
Other turns to take.
Spicy Infusion
Add one small, dried chili pepper to the jar for a heat-forward honey that pairs well with sharp cheeses.
Citrus Blend
Include a thin strip of dried orange or lemon peel with your rosemary sprigs to brighten the base notes of the honey.
When it doesn't go to plan.
Use raw, unheated honey for the best consistency and flavor profile.
If the honey crystallizes, set the jar in a bowl of warm water until it returns to a liquid state.
Remove the herb sprigs after one month if you prefer a cleaner honey, or leave them in for a more intense extraction.
The ones that keep coming up.
Can I use delicate herbs like basil or cilantro?
It is not recommended. Soft herbs contain too much water and will likely rot or ferment quickly, even when submerged in honey.
How long does this keep?
When kept sealed in a cool, dark place, it remains stable for several months.
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