Recipe(tried): Drying Herbs

There are several ways to dry herbs. I have been using an electric dehydrator for several years now. It has stackable trays a fan to keep the air circulating and a temperature control so I can use it for more than just herbs.

Before I got my dehydrator, I found the easiest way to dry herbs was to gather them in handful sized bunches, wrap the stems with twine and hang them upside down in any warm dry place (a garage or attic works nicely). Just remember that they need to be exposed to air in orger to dry properly, so dont' make the bunches too big and be sure to leave a few inches between the the hanging bunches.

Check them every few days and when they are brittle to the touch, they are ready.

Then all you do is strip off the leaves (and flowers/seeds for dill) and store them in air tight containers, away from light.

My grandmother used to leave her herbs hanging all year round and use them as needed, but they do lose flavor that way, and have a tendency to gather dust and insects.

I would suggest that if you intend to dry lots of food for winter use and storage, that a dehydtator is the way to go. You can buy one commercially or make your own using plans from the internet or your local library.

Good luck and enjoy the fruits of your garden!