Homegrown herbs are not only an addition to culinary creations, but also a source of health and well-being. In this article we will explore why it is good to have herbs at home, how to dry them properly so that you can use them all year round, which herbs are best for drying, how to store them and what is their shelf life.
To have at home having your own dried herbs means always having them freshness and health at your fingertips. With proper drying, storage and use, you can significantly improve the quality of your cooking and well-being. Dried herbs are a wonderful way to add depth of flavor and nature's healing powers to your diet without compromising quality of ingredients.
Benefits of homemade dried herbs
Homegrown herbs have many benefits. In addition to being always at hand when you need them for cooking, they also contain less or no pesticides if you grow them yourself. Herbs such as basil, rosemary, thyme and others are known for their antioxidant properties and can help improve digestion and even reduce stress.
How to properly dry herbs
It is important to dry herbs you choose the right time and way. The best time to collect herbs is just before the flowers appear on the plant, as this is when the concentration of essential oils is highest. Then wash and dry the herbs thoroughly. Place them on a clean cloth or paper towels in one layer and dry them in a warm place, but not in direct sunlight. The room should be well ventilated. Drying can take several days to weeks, depending on the humidity in the air and the thickness of the leaves. You can also use a dehydrator, which allows for more controlled and even drying.
The best herbs for drying
Among the most popular drying herbs are basil, rosemary, marjoram, thyme, oregano, lemon balm and mint. These herbs retain their strong flavor and aroma even after drying and are extremely useful in various culinary dishes.
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Storing dried herbs
Once the herbs are dried, store them in airtight containers or glass jars with tight-fitting lids. It is important that they are stored in a dark and cool place, as this is how they retain their aroma and taste for the longest time. Avoid storing in plastic, as this can change the flavor of the herbs.
Shelf life of dried herbs
Dried herbs can last up to three years when stored properly, but for best quality it is recommended to use them within a year. If the herbs lose their color or aroma, this is a sign that they are no longer as effective.
