Thursday, May 14, 2009

Drying Herbs---Oven Method

I had so much Oregano, I had to do something. :)

I figured I'd share how I dried some using our oven. Later this year I am going to try the dehydrator and the traditional air drying, but this was so very easy. Quick too.

First, early on a clear morning, pick your herbs. I gathered a few small baskets full.


Next, take your herbs and place them in a single layer on a dish. I used mainly cookie sheets. Turn your oven on its lowest setting, and place the herbs inside, leaving the oven door ajar.


After an hour or so, check on them to see how dry they are. You may have to turn them, and you may end up having to leave them in the oven for a few hours. Mine took about three. When you touch them, they should crumble. You will know they are ready when this occurs. Once they are done, you're ready to bottle 'em up. you can use glass containers or Ziploc bags, but whatever you choose must be airtight. I used glass containers.


So there ya go, a quick, easy way to put up those extra herbs.

3 comments:

Maggie said...

Thanks for sharing this I have wondered how oven dirting turns out. Your method looks easy.

Jenna said...

Awesome! It looks very pretty too;) I'll probably try this with all of the basil that we have...

In Christ Alone,
Jenna

Anonymous said...

My son and I wanted to make catnip mice for xmas presents. Having had cut my nip back after it finished blooming early this summer I had a lot of fragrant new shoots this balmy Nov.day. WE used the oven last time I wanted to check my temp decision I'm going to try yours it is lower. Thanks Kim in Greenwich NJ.