
Preserving herbs is an essential practice for any culinary enthusiast or avid gardener. Fresh herbs can elevate your dishes, but having a stock of preserved herbs ensures you can enjoy their flavors year-round. This guide will walk you through the best methods to cut, dry, and preserve herbs, maximizing their flavor and shelf life.
Cutting Herbs: The First Step to Preserve Herbs
When to cut your herbs is crucial. The best time to harvest herbs is in the morning after the dew has dried but before the sun becomes too hot. This timing ensures that the herbs are at their peak flavor and oil content. Use sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears to avoid damaging the plants.
1. Basil and Mint: Cut the stems just above a pair of leaves, which encourages the plant to grow bushier.
2. Thyme and Rosemary: Harvest by cutting the top 5-6 inches. For thyme, it’s best to trim just before or during the early flowering stage.
3. Parsley and Cilantro: Snip the outer leaves at the base of the stem.
Drying Herbs: The Key to Preserve Herbs
Drying herbs is a straightforward process, but it must be done correctly to preserve their flavor and potency. Here are the most effective methods:
1. Air Drying:
-Step 1: Gather your cut herbs into small bundles, securing them with a string or rubber band.
-Step 2: Hang the bundles upside down in a well-ventilated, dry area away from direct sunlight. A dark, cool place like an attic or a shaded porch works best.
-Step 3: Check the herbs periodically. Depending on humidity levels, air drying can take 1-2 weeks. The herbs are ready when they crumble easily between your fingers.

2. Oven Drying:
-Step 1: Preheat your oven to the lowest temperature setting (around 180°F or 80°C).
-Step 2: Spread the herbs in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
-Step 3: Place the sheet in the oven, leaving the door slightly ajar to allow moisture to escape. Check the herbs every 10 minutes to ensure they don’t burn.
-Step 4: Once the herbs are dry and crumbly, remove them from the oven and let them cool.

3. Dehydrator:
-Step 1: Arrange the herbs on the dehydrator trays in a single layer.
-Step 2: Set the dehydrator to the recommended temperature for herbs (usually around 95°F or 35°C)
-Step 3: Drying times can vary from 1-4 hours. Check periodically for dryness.

Storing and Preserving Herbs: Lasting Freshness
Once your herbs are dry, proper storage is crucial to preserve herbs effectively. Follow these steps to ensure your dried herbs retain their flavor:
1. Storage Containers: Use airtight containers such as glass jars with tight-fitting lids. Avoid plastic bags as they can let in moisture.
2. Labeling: Always label your containers with the name of the herb and the date of drying to keep track of freshness.
3. Storage Location: Store your jars in a cool, dark place like a pantry or cupboard. Avoid direct sunlight and heat sources.
Tips for Long-Term Preservation
1. Freezing: Some herbs like basil, chives, and dill freeze well. Chop the herbs and place them in ice cube trays, then fill with water or olive oil and freeze. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag for long-term storage.
2. Herb Salts: Blend dried herbs with coarse sea salt and store in an airtight jar. This not only preserves the herbs but also creates a flavorful seasoning mix.
3. Herb Vinegars: Infuse vinegar with fresh herbs for a delightful addition to salads and marinades. Fill a sterilized jar with fresh herbs, cover with vinegar, and let it steep for a few weeks before straining.

Learning how to cut, dry, and preserve herbs properly allows you to enjoy the taste of fresh herbs all year long. Whether you prefer the traditional method of air drying or the quicker approach of oven drying, preserving herbs ensures that none of your garden’s bounty goes to waste. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a pantry full of fragrant, flavorful herbs ready to enhance any dish.
Looking for fresh herbs near you? Don’t forget to check out Farm Trader for all your fresh produce needs! If you are in the Sylva/Cullowhee area, look no further than Mountain Monk Microgreens. They have a large selection of herbs and greens that you can order right from their page!
Remember, the key to preserve herbs is not just in the drying process but also in proper storage. Happy preserving!