Drying fresh herbs quickly can be a great way to preserve their flavor and aroma for future use. There are several methods you can try, but one quick and easy way is to use your microwave. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Start by gathering your fresh herbs. You can use any type of herbs you like, such as rosemary, thyme, basil, or oregano. Make sure they are clean and dry before proceeding.
2. Take a microwave-safe plate and line it with a paper towel or a clean dish towel. This will help absorb any moisture from the herbs as they dry.
3. Lay the herbs in a single layer on the paper towel. If you have larger sprigs, you can break them into smaller pieces to ensure even drying.
4. Place another paper towel or a clean dish towel on top of the herbs, covering them completely. This will help prevent any splattering in the microwave.
5. Microwave the herbs on high power. The drying time will depend on the type of herb you are using. For hearty herbs like rosemary or thyme, start with 1 minute of microwaving. For delicate herbs like basil or parsley, start with 40 seconds.
6. After the initial microwaving, check the herbs to see if they are dry. If they are not completely dry, continue microwaving in 20-second bursts, checking after each burst, until they are completely dry. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become brittle and lose their flavor.
7. Once the herbs are dry, remove them from the microwave and let them cool completely. Then, crumble or crush them into smaller pieces and store them in an airtight container.
It’s important to note that the microwave method may not be suitable for all types of herbs. Delicate herbs like cilantro or dill may not retain their flavor well when dried in the microwave, so it’s best to air dry them or use other methods like using a dehydrator or hanging them to dry.
In my personal experience, I have found the microwave method to be quite effective for drying hearty herbs like rosemary and thyme. It’s a quick and convenient way to preserve their flavors, especially when I have an abundance of fresh herbs from my garden that I want to use throughout the year.
To summarize, drying fresh herbs quickly can be done using a microwave. Simply arrange the herbs on a microwave-safe plate lined with a paper towel, cover with another paper towel, and microwave in short bursts until completely dry. Remember to adjust the drying time based on the type of herb you are using.
