Tasty and aromatic, rosemary is among the strongest and most popular aromatic herbs. Unlike many other herbs, rosemary releases only a few of its aromatic properties during drying; for this reason it is perfect to be dried and preserved. Drying rosemary is a really simple process, which will allow you to use it in the future in your dishes or as a delicious and fragrant decoration.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Hanging it on a Wire
Step 1. With scissors, cut a sprig of rosemary from the plant
The best time to collect it is in the morning, when the sun has dried the dew of the night.
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Where you removed the sprig, new lush buds will soon be born.
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Try to get straight twigs of equal length; in this way it will be easier to create bunches.
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Step 2. Tie the twigs into bunches, wrapping them with string around the base
Make a loop at one end of the string so you can hang them more easily.
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Alternatively, you can hang your rosemary bunches using one or more rubber bands.
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In each bunch you can add up to 7-8 sprigs of rosemary.
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Step 3. Hang the bunches in a cool, dry and well-ventilated place
You can decide to dry it outdoors, but if you want to keep its color and aroma, you should find an indoor and sheltered place.
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The porch, attic, and pantry are great options. If you think it would be more practical, use a coat rack to hang the rosemary bunches upside down.
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Some recommend covering rosemary with food or packaging paper while drying. This will protect it from dust and sunlight that could discolour it. When choosing to use this method, don't forget to drill holes in the paper to allow for good ventilation.
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Step 4. Turn the bunches every 24-48 hours to make sure they dry evenly
The drying will be complete when the stems and leaves of the rosemary can no longer be folded. This should take about two weeks.
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If you prefer, spread the sprigs / bunches of rosemary on a flat or inclined mosquito net, hold it high with concrete or wooden blocks to allow perfect air circulation.
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A humid environment is not suitable for drying rosemary. If you have this problem, you can use a dryer or home oven.
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Step 5. Store the dried rosemary
Once completely dry, you can place it on a sheet of parchment paper and separate the sturdy, woody stems from the needles. Store it in an airtight container inside your kitchen pantry. Use it to flavor your best recipes, such as a stew or roast of lamb, garlic and herb bread, or to flavor oil or butter.
Method 2 of 3: Using the Oven
Step 1. Prepare the rosemary
Rinse it carefully under cold water and remove any dirt or grime. Pat it dry with paper towels or use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture. Remove withered needles and more woody stems.
Step 2. Spread the rosemary on a baking sheet
Cut the rosemary into pieces of about half a centimeter and spread it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Don't overdo the quantities.
Step 3. Put in the oven
Place the pan on the top shelf of the oven preheated to the minimum temperature. Cook for about 2-4 hours, or until the rosemary needles are crumbly.
Step 4. Transfer the rosemary to a glass jar
After removing it from the oven let it cool completely. Grab the ends of the parchment paper and create a funnel to slide the rosemary needles into the jar. Seal the jar and store it in a dry, dark place, such as the kitchen pantry.
Method 3 of 3: Using a Food Dehydrator
Step 1. Prepare the rosemary
Rinse it carefully under cold water and remove any dirt or grime. Pat it dry with paper towels or use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
Step 2. Spread the rosemary on a shelf in the dryer
Turn it on by setting it to a low temperature (35-40 ° C) and cook until the needles of the rosemary break, if you bend them.
The most delicate aromatic herbs tend to crumble when subjected to a drying process; rosemary, on the other hand, tends to break
Step 3. Store it in a clean glass jar
Transfer the dried rosemary to a clean, sealable glass jar. Store it in a dark, dry place, such as the kitchen pantry.
Advice
- Rosemary has multiple uses. It is excellent for seasoning pork, chicken and fish. It has astringent properties and can be added to hot water for facial steam treatments. Its aroma is invigorating and quickly gives vigor when added to a hot bath. Used as an infusion, it stimulates good mood and circulation and relieves the nervous system.
- If you don't have a dryer or a dry place available, you can decide to freeze fresh rosemary. Wash and dry it before sealing it in plastic food bags. When the rosemary is completely frozen, you can remove the leaves from the stem and store them in glass, plastic or any other type of container that you can seal tightly.
