Preserving your herbs

Drying herbs is a great way to preserve them. Moisture must be removed to preserve herbs. Harvest herbs at their peak , before they flower is best. Cut before the dew has dried in the morning, their oils are at their highest concentration. Wash the stems and leaves in cool running water to remove dirt and bugs. Shake them off and spread on a single layer on paper towels or a dish towel to dry completely. When the rinse water has evaporated, the real drying can begin. You can use a microwave by layering herbs between two paper towels. Cook on a medium setting for 3 minutes, checking frequently until the herbs are dry and brittle. This is a quick and easy method. A standard oven can be used at very low temperatures. Bake in a single layer on baking sheets at 150°F for 2 or 3 hours, stirring periodically for even drying. They overcook easily, so watch them carefully. I have a toaster oven which works quickly but doesn't dry a lot at one time. Dehydrators work slowly, and don't actually cook the herbs. Spread the leaves out in the trays in a single layer and follow the manufacturer's instructions. Layer clean, dry herbs with kosher salt in a shallow container covering herbs completely. In 2-3 weeks, you should be able to lift leaves from salt and shake it off. Another way to preserve herbs is to freeze them.Once frozen, herbs can be used in cooking only, not as a fresh garnish.Wash and dry herbs, strip the leaves and chop fine. Divide into small bunches, such as 1 or 2 tablespoons. Place in small freezer bags, forcing the air out before sealing to keep ice from forming. Label each bag. Herbs can be frozen in ice, for recipes that can stand a little extra water, like soups or stews. Using an ice cube tray, place 1 or 2 tablespoons of chopped herb into each section, cover with water, and freeze. Pop herb cubes out and store in labeled freezer bags, preferably zipper. Herbs can also be frozen as a puree, such as basil pesto. Puree herbs with a minimum amount of oil (I like using olive oil), then freeze in small plastic containers. Enjoy in cooking, baking and as hot or cold teas!