Preserving herbs from the garden is a great way to enjoy the homegrown flavor all year round. You can freeze or dry your fresh herbs, allowing you to store and use them for months after the growing season is over. In this guide, we’ll discuss how you can preserve your herbs by freezing and drying them and answer some of the most common questions about preserving herbs from your garden.
Can You Freeze Herbs From The Garden?
Yes, you can freeze herbs from the garden. Freezing fresh herbs is a great way to preserve their flavor and nutrients for later use. To freeze herbs, rinse them off, pat dry with a paper towel, and place them on the parchment-lined baking sheet in the freezer. Once frozen, you can store the herbs in an airtight container for up to six months.
Five ways to freeze fresh herbs:
1. Freezing Bare Herbs:
The most common way to freeze herbs is to place the washed and dried herbs on a parchment-lined baking sheet, then put it in the freezer. Once frozen, you can transfer the herbs into an airtight container or bag. Some herbs, like parsley and basil, will retain more flavor if cut into small pieces before freezing.
2. Freezing Herbs in Olive Oil:
Freezing herbs in olive oil are great for adding a flavorful boost to cooked dishes. Combine equal parts of washed and dried herbs with olive oil in an ice cube tray or airtight container and freeze. Once frozen, you can store the cubes in a container or use a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.
3. Freezing Herbs in Butter:
Butter is another great way to preserve herbs. Combine equal parts of washed and dried herbs with butter and place them in an ice cube tray or airtight container. Once frozen, you can store the cubes in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to six months.
4. Freezing Herbs with Salt:
Freezing herbs with salt is a great way to preserve their flavor and shelf life. Combine equal parts of washed and dried herbs with sea salt and place them in an ice cube tray or airtight container. Once frozen, you can store the cubes in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to six months.
5. Freezing Herbs with Water:
Freezing herbs with water are ideal for making flavorful stocks and broths. Combine equal parts of washed and dried herbs with cold water and place them in an ice cube tray. Once frozen, you can store the cubes in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to six months.
Is it Better to Dry or Freeze Fresh Herbs?
It depends on how you plan to use the herbs. Drying is usually better for long-term storage since it preserves the flavor and texture of the herbs for up to one year. Freezing is better for short-term storage and using herbs in cooked dishes.
The difference between the two methods is that drying removes the moisture from the herbs while freezing preserves it. Dried herbs have stronger flavors and are ideal for adding flavor to dishes. Frozen herbs are best suited for soups, sauces, and other cooked dishes since they will retain some of their original texture and flavor.
How Long Do Herbs Last In The Freezer?
Herbs that are frozen in oil, butter, or water can generally last up to three months in the freezer. Herbs that have been dried and frozen can typically last up to six months in the freezer. It is important to note that herbs should be stored airtight in order to preserve their flavor and freshness for as long as possible.
How Do You Dry Herbs From The Garden?
You can dry herbs from the garden by air drying, oven drying, or using a food dehydrator. To air-dry herbs, tie the stems together and hang them upside down in a cool, dark place for several days until they are completely dry. To oven-dry herbs, spread the leaves in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake in an oven preheated to its lowest setting for 2-3 hours. Finally, use a food dehydrator, place the herbs onto the trays, and set the temperature to 115-125 degrees Fahrenheit.
Four different ways to dry herbs from the Garden.
1. Air Drying:
Air drying is the simplest and least expensive method for preserving herbs. Gather the washed and dried herbs into small bunches, tie them with string, and hang them in a warm, dry place away from direct sunlight. Check on your herbs often; once they are dry, they can be crumbled and stored in airtight containers.
2. Oven Drying:
Oven drying is another great way to preserve herbs. Preheat your oven to its lowest setting (about 150F) and spread the washed and dried herbs on a parchment-lined baking sheet in an even layer. Bake for about an hour or until the herbs are completely dry and brittle. Store in airtight containers.
3. Microwave Drying:
Microwave drying is a quick way to preserve herbs. Spread the washed and dried herbs on a paper towel-lined plate and microwave in 30-second intervals until they are completely dry and crisp. Store in airtight containers.
4. Dehydrator Drying:
Using a dehydrator is the best way to preserve herbs with maximum flavor and nutrition. Spread the washed and dried herbs on parchment-lined trays and set the temperature to 95F-115F. Depending on your machine, it should take anywhere from a few hours to a day for the herbs to dry completely. Store in airtight containers.
How Long Do Dried Herbs Last?
Dried herbs can last for up to a year when stored properly in an airtight container. You should also keep them away from direct light, moisture, and heat to preserve their flavor and freshness. Make sure to label the containers with the date you dried the herbs so that you can easily tell when they are past their prime.
Preserving herbs from the garden is a great way to enjoy the homegrown flavor all year round. You can freeze or dry your fresh herbs, allowing you to store and use them for months after the growing season is over. By following these tips and answers to common questions, you’ll be able to easily preserve your garden herbs for later use.
