How to access fresh herbs year round
Find out step-by-step how to harvest and preserve your herbs before winter arrives.
This guide will provide you with various methods to ensure you have access to fresh herbs all year round.
Drying Herbs
Drying herbs is one of the simplest and most cost-effective methods to preserve your herbs. Follow these steps to dry your herbs:
1. Harvest your herbs in the morning after the dew has dried.
2. Rinse the herbs gently and pat them dry with a paper towel.
3. Bundle the herbs together and tie them with a string.
4. Hang the bundles upside down in a warm, dry, and well-ventilated area.
5. Allow the herbs to dry for 1-2 weeks until they are brittle.
6. Store the dried herbs in airtight containers away from direct sunlight.
Notes
- Costs: minimal, only the cost of string and containers.
- Ease: very easy
- How to use: crumble the dried herbs and use them in cooking as needed.
- Storage duration: up to 1 year
Herb Oil
Herb-infused oils are a great way to preserve the flavor of fresh herbs. Here's how to make herb oil:
1. Harvest and rinse your herbs, then pat them dry.
2. Place the herbs in a clean, dry glass jar.
3. Pour olive oil over the herbs until they are completely submerged.
4. Seal the jar and store it in a cool, dark place for 1-2 weeks.
5. Strain the oil through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean bottle.
Notes
- Costs: moderate, mainly the cost of olive oil and jars
- Ease: easy
- How to use: use the herb-infused oil in cooking, salad dressings, or as a finishing oil
- Storage duration: up to 6 months
Herb Butter
Herb butter is a delicious way to preserve and enjoy fresh herbs. Follow these steps to make herb butter:
1. Harvest and rinse your herbs, then pat them dry.
2. Finely chop the herbs.
3. In a bowl, mix the chopped herbs with softened butter.
4. Shape the herb butter into a log and wrap it in plastic wrap.
5. Store the herb butter in the refrigerator or freezer.
Notes
- Costs: moderate, mainly the cost of butter
- Ease: easy
- How to use: use herb butter on bread, vegetables, or meats
- Storage duration: up to 1 week in the refrigerator, up to 6 months in the freezer
Freezing Herbs
Freezing herbs is a quick and easy way to preserve their fresh flavor. Here's how to freeze herbs:
1. Harvest and rinse your herbs, then pat them dry.
2. Chop the herbs if desired.
3. Place the herbs in ice cube trays and cover them with water or olive oil.
4. Freeze the trays until the herbs are solid.
5. Transfer the herb cubes to a freezer bag or container.
Notes
- Costs: minimal, only the cost of ice cube trays and freezer bags
- Ease: very easy
- How to use: add the frozen herb cubes directly to soups, stews, or sauces
- Storage duration: up to 6 months
Other methods
There are several other methods to preserve herbs, including making herb vinegar, herb salt, and herb pesto. Each method has its own unique benefits and uses.
