How to Preserve Herbs to Avoid Waste
Do you often find yourself throwing away wilted herbs because you couldn’t use them in time? It’s a common issue in many kitchens. Fresh herbs can add incredible flavor to your meals, but they often come in quantities more than we need for a single dish. Instead of watching them go to waste, why not try preserving them? In this article, we’re sharing simple yet effective ways to keep your herbs fresh and flavorful for longer periods.
Freeze in Oil or Water
One of the easiest and most popular methods is freezing herbs in oil or water. This method works best for herbs you’d typically cook rather than use fresh, like rosemary, thyme, sage, or oregano. Simply chop your herbs, place them in ice cube trays, and cover them with water or oil. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag for easy storage. When you’re ready to use them, pop a cube directly into your pot or pan. The oil method offers an added bonus of instant flavor for cooking, while the water method is great for soups and stews.
Dry Your Herbs
Drying herbs is another excellent preservation method, especially for herbs like parsley, dill, basil, and mint. There are a few ways you can dry herbs:
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Air drying: Tie bunches of herbs with a string and hang them in a warm, dry, and ventilated area out of direct sunlight. It could take a few weeks, but once the herbs are completely dry, strip the leaves from the stems and store them in an airtight container.
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Oven drying: This method is faster than air drying. Simply lay the herbs on a baking sheet, ensuring they don’t overlap, and set your oven to the lowest temperature. Leave the door slightly open to allow moisture to escape and check regularly until the herbs are dry. This method can take a few hours, depending on the herb and oven.
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Microwave drying: For those in a hurry, microwave drying is the quickest option. Lay herbs between two paper towels and microwave them for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Check for dryness and repeat in short intervals if necessary. Keep in mind, this method might not work for all herbs.
Make Herb Butters or Pestos
Combining herbs with butter or turning them into pesto not only preserves them but also prepares an instant flavor booster for your dishes. For herb butter, soften butter to room temperature, mix in your chopped herbs, roll the mixture into a log using parchment paper, and freeze it. Whenever needed, slice off a piece of the herb butter to add to your cooking. Pesto can be made traditionally with basil or get creative with other herbs and greens. Store it in the fridge for a short-term or freeze in ice cube trays for long-term use.
Use a Herb Saver
Investing in a herb saver is a great idea for those who prefer keeping their herbs fresh. A herb saver is a container designed to prolong the life of your herbs. They typically work by keeping the herb stems slightly submerged in water while the leaves remain dry, mimicking their natural growing conditions. With proper care, a herb saver can keep herbs fresh for up to three weeks.
Vinegar Infusions
Infusing vinegar with herbs is a flavorful way to preserve their essence. Simply place your fresh herbs in a clean jar and cover them with warm vinegar. Apple cider vinegar, white wine vinegar, or distilled white vinegar are excellent choices depending on your taste preference. Seal the jar and store it in a cool, dark place for about two weeks to let the flavors meld. Strain out the herbs, and your infused vinegar is ready to use in dressings, marinades, or any dish calling for a burst of flavor.
By adopting these methods, you’ll not only reduce waste but also ensure that you always have herbs on hand to elevate your dishes. Each technique has its unique benefits, so feel free to experiment and discover what works best for the types of herbs you commonly use. Preserving herbs is simple, economical, and a great way to make the most out of your kitchen garden or grocery haul.
