How to Dry Fresh Herbs (Two Easy Methods)

One of my favorite ways to preserve herbs is by drying them. There are several ways to do this, but I've had the best success with two simple methods: air drying and oven drying. Air drying takes a little more patience, but it is incredibly easy and helps preserve the herbs' natural flavor and aroma.

Before you begin, rinse your herbs thoroughly and gently pat them dry with a clean towel. Delicate herbs like cilantro are easiest if you remove the leaves from the stems first. It takes a little time, but I like to put on some music and make an afternoon of it. This is also a great task for younger children that want to help in the kitchen.  Hardier herbs like rosemary will fall off the stem during the drying process.

Air Drying Herbs

Gather several sprigs together and tie them with twine or other biodegradable string. Hang the bundles upside down in a cool dry location with good airflow. You can dry your herbs in a basement with adequate circulation, a pantry, laundry room, or covered porch will work just as well.

Check the herbs every couple of days. Once the leaves crumble easily between your fingers, they're ready. Remove the leaves from the stems, gently crush them if desired, and store them in airtight containers. I love washing and reusing old spice jars - they're perfect for homemade herbs!

Oven Drying Herbs

If you're short on time, the oven works wonderfully. Spread the herbs in a single layer on a baking sheet and set your oven to its lowest temperature. Check on them after about 30 minutes. If they aren't completely dry, continue checking every 10 minutes until the leaves crumble easily. Let them cool before storing them in airtight containers. Remember, dried herbs are much more concentrated than fresh herbs, so you'll usually need about one-third as much when cooking.

More Than Just Cooking

One of the reasons I love growing herbs is that they're useful far beyond the kitchen. I enjoy brewing a cup of soothing bee balm tea when I'm feeling under the weather, adding dried lavender to a relaxing bath, or creating fragrant bouquets with lavender and lemon balm to naturally freshen the house.

My Favorite Herb Drying Supplies

• Herb drying rack

• Garden snips

• Glass spice jars with labels

• Small funnel

If you're just getting started with growing herbs, don't miss my guide: 10 Easy Herbs Every Gardener Should Grow

If you're interested in learning more about medicinal herbs and their many traditional uses, one of my favorite resources is: Medicinal Seed Kit