I love the smell of fresh herbs in my kitchen. They add a burst of flavor to any dish and can really elevate the overall taste. But what happens when you have an abundance of herbs and they start to wilt before you can use them all? Well, fear not! I have discovered a quick and efficient method to dry herbs in the microwave. Yes, you read that right, the microwave!
The Microwave: More than Just a Reheating Tool
When we think of microwaves, we usually think of reheating leftovers or popping popcorn. But did you know that your microwave can also be used for other purposes? One of those purposes is drying herbs quickly and efficiently. Forget about waiting weeks for your herbs to air dry or using a dehydrator that takes up counter space. With this microwave method, you can have dried herbs ready to use in just a matter of minutes!
Gather Your Fresh Herbs
The first step in drying herbs in the microwave is, of course, gathering your fresh herbs. You can either use herbs from your own garden or store-bought ones. Some of my favorite herbs to dry are rosemary, thyme, basil, and oregano. Make sure to give your herbs a rinse and pat them dry gently with a paper towel before moving on to the next step.
Prep Your Herbs
Once your herbs are clean and dry, it’s time to prep them for the microwave. Start by removing any leaves that appear damaged or discolored. Then, bundle your herbs together in small, loosely-tied bundles. This will allow for even drying and prevent any scorching or burning. Be sure to tie the bundles using kitchen twine or a long piece of cotton string. You don’t want to use any synthetic materials that could melt in the microwave!
Find the Right Microwave-safe Container
Next, you’ll need to find a microwave-safe container to place your herb bundles in. A microwave-safe plate or a microwave-safe dish with a microwave-safe lid will work perfectly. You just want to make sure that the container is large enough to hold all of your herb bundles without overcrowding them. Overcrowding can lead to uneven drying, and we want our herbs to dry evenly for the best quality and flavor.
Time to Microwave!
Now that your herbs are prepped and your container is ready, it’s time to start microwaving. Place your herb bundles on the microwave-safe container, making sure to leave some space between each bundle. Then, cover the container with a microwave-safe lid or a microwave-safe plate. This will help create a mini greenhouse effect, trapping the moisture and helping your herbs dry evenly.
Set your microwave to its lowest power setting. This is usually around 10% power or the defrost setting. You want to dry your herbs slowly to avoid scorching or burning them. Start by microwaving your herb bundles for 2 minutes at a time, checking on them after each interval. The total drying time will depend on the type of herbs you’re drying and the moisture content in them.
Storing Your Dried Herbs
Once your herbs are dry and crumbly to the touch, they are ready to be stored. Carefully remove them from the microwave and let them cool completely. Then, gently remove the leaves from the stems, discarding the stems and any debris. You can either leave the herbs as whole leaves or crush them into smaller pieces for easier storage and use.
Store your dried herbs in airtight containers, away from direct sunlight and heat. Mason jars, spice jars, or even resealable plastic bags work well for herb storage. Be sure to label your containers with the herb name and the date of drying. This will help you keep track of the freshness and potency of your dried herbs.
Using Your Dried Herbs
Now that you have a stash of dried herbs, it’s time to put them to good use! Dried herbs can be used in the same way as fresh herbs, but keep in mind that their flavors may be more concentrated. Start by using small amounts of dried herbs and adjust according to your taste preferences. You can use dried herbs in marinades, dressings, soups, stews, and pretty much any dish that calls for herbs. Experiment and have fun exploring the wonderful world of dried herbs!
In conclusion, drying herbs in the microwave is a quick and efficient method that can save you time and preserve the flavor of your favorite herbs. Just remember to gather your fresh herbs, prep them properly, find a microwave-safe container, and set your microwave to a low power setting. Once dried, store your herbs in airtight containers and enjoy their flavor all year round. Happy herb drying!