How To Dry Herbs In The Oven! Episode 142

Introduction

Drying herbs in the oven is a simple and effective way to preserve your homegrown or excess herbs. This tutorial will guide you through the steps to dry herbs like basil, rosemary, and catnip, ensuring you have flavorful additions ready for your kitchen.

Step 1: Prepare Your Herbs

• Select Fresh Herbs: Choose herbs that are healthy and free of pests. Common options include basil, rosemary, peppermint, and parsley.
• Remove Leaves: Pinch off the leaves from the stems. You can do this by holding the stem and tearing the leaves away from the connection point.
• Wash the Leaves: Rinse the leaves thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities. Shake off excess water or use a colander to drain.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

• Set Temperature: Preheat your oven to 195 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature helps to dry the herbs quickly without burning them. If you prefer a lower temperature, 175 degrees Fahrenheit can work as well, but drying will take longer.

Step 3: Arrange the Herbs on a Baking Sheet

• Prepare the Baking Sheet: Use a small or large cookie sheet depending on the amount of herbs you have. Ensure the leaves are spread out in a single layer for even drying.
• Position in Oven: Place the baking sheet on the top rack of the oven to ensure proper air circulation.

Step 4: Dry the Herbs

• Oven Time: Let the herbs dry in the oven for about 1 to 1.5 hours. Check them periodically.
• Check for Doneness: The herbs are ready when they feel crunchy. Give the baking sheet a gentle shake; if the leaves sound crunchy, they are done.

Step 5: Store the Dried Herbs

• Cool and Grind: Allow the dried herbs to cool. You can crush them by hand or use a mortar and pestle for finer consistency.
• Packaging: Place the dried herbs in a resealable bag. Remove excess air to preserve freshness, then seal the bag.

Conclusion

Drying herbs in the oven is a straightforward process that can help you make the most of your herb garden. Remember that dried herbs may lose some potency, so adjust the quantity you use in recipes accordingly. Enjoy your freshly dried herbs in various dishes and consider starting your own indoor herb garden for a steady supply!