Dried Herbs

To prepare aromatic herbs for preservation for later use, it is essential to follow the steps carefully to ensure you achieve the best results. Start by selecting your favorite herbs, such as basil, dill, thyme, or oregano. Make sure they are fresh and of good quality. Then, wash each herb under a stream of cold water to remove any impurities or pesticides. After washing, use a paper towel to absorb the excess water, so the herbs are dry but not wilted.

Arrange the herbs on trays lined with absorbent paper, ensuring they are spread out evenly to facilitate drying. Lightly cover them with another paper towel to protect them from dust and other particles. It is important to turn and fluff the herbs occasionally to ensure they dry evenly. The ideal drying location should be away from direct sunlight and strong drafts to prevent flavor degradation.

Once the herbs are completely dry, take each plant and rub it between your palms over a clean paper towel to collect the leaves. If you notice that the leaves are too large, you can rub them again or even grind them using a coffee grinder to achieve the desired coarseness. Place the resulting herbs in airtight jars, label them appropriately, and store them on a spice shelf in a dry, dark place.

If you have a larger quantity of plants, you can opt to form bundles. Tie each bundle with string, making sure it is tightly secured at the bottom while leaving the stems free. After tying the bundles, wash them again, remove the excess water, and hang them upside down in a dark place away from sunlight and drafts. To prevent dust accumulation, you can cover each bundle with a dark paper bag, loosely securing it to the bundle's stem, allowing air to circulate freely.

Depending on the types of herbs you have chosen, you can create custom blends for delicious dishes or replicate traditional blends, such as those from Provence. So, let your imagination run wild and experiment with various combinations of flavors to add a touch of originality and taste to the dishes you prepare. These dried herbs will not only add a delicious flavor but will also turn every meal into an unforgettable culinary experience.