Drying Fresh Herbs
Drying herbs preserves their volatile oils for months, provided you remove all moisture and store them away from light and heat. You are looking for a brittle texture that snaps cleanly, rather than bending, before crumbling them into jars.
Wait for the dew to lift
Harvest herbs in the morning after the dew has evaporated but before the sun is at its peak. Ensure they are free of dirt and grit, as washing them introduces moisture that invites mold.
- Kitchen twine
- Paper bags
- Dark, cool, well-ventilated space
Airflow is your primary tool
Bundle herbs loosely at the stems to ensure air circulates around every leaf; tight bundles trap humidity and lead to decay instead of preservation.
The method.
Bundle the herbs
Gather 6 to 8 stems together. Tie the base of the stems tightly with twine, leaving a long loop to hang them from.
Protect the leaves
Slide the bundle into a paper bag, leaves first. Poke several holes in the sides of the bag for airflow and tie the opening around the stems.
Hang for drying
Suspend the bags in a dark, dry place with consistent air movement. Avoid kitchens or bathrooms where steam is common.
Test for dryness
After one week, check the herbs. They are done when the leaves feel like brittle paper and crumble instantly between your fingers.
Store
Remove the leaves from the stems and crumble them into small, airtight glass jars. Keep these in a pantry shelf away from the stove.
When it doesn't go to plan.
Do not use plastic bags, as they trap condensation and ruin the crop.
Keep herbs whole until you are ready to use them; once crushed, they lose their potency much faster.
If your herbs look grey or discolored after two weeks, discard them, as they have likely begun to compost.
The ones that keep coming up.
Can I use the oven to dry herbs?
It is possible, but risky. Ovens often cook the herbs rather than drying them, stripping away the oils that give them flavor. Air drying is more reliable.
How do I know if they are properly dry?
If there is any flexibility or 'give' to the stem or leaf, it is still holding water and will rot if stored in a jar.