If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to preserve your fresh summer herbs, or need a solution for using up leftover herbs from the store, drying them in the microwave is an excellent method. It’s fast, efficient, and works particularly well for heartier herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage. In this guide, we’ll take you through the steps of drying herbs in the microwave, along with tips for success, variations, and how to store them. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or a beginner, this method is accessible and effective.
Why You’ll Love Drying Herbs in the Microwave
Drying herbs in the microwave offers a range of benefits that make it a go-to method for many people. Here are some reasons why you’ll love this process:
- Quick and Efficient: Unlike traditional air-drying, which can take several days, microwaving herbs only takes a few minutes. If you’re in a rush to preserve fresh herbs, this method will save you a lot of time.
- Energy-Efficient: Using the microwave to dry herbs is more energy-efficient than using an oven or dehydrator. It’s a convenient, low-energy solution for small batches.
- Retain Flavor and Aroma: While air-drying herbs can sometimes cause them to lose some of their natural flavors and fragrances, drying in the microwave helps retain more of the fresh essence, making your herbs more potent.
- Preserve Fresh Herbs: If you’ve grown a herb garden or bought more herbs than you can use in a week, drying them in the microwave is an excellent way to avoid food waste. You can enjoy the flavor of summer herbs throughout the year.
- Simple and Affordable: The method requires just a few common kitchen tools, including a microwave, paper towels, and fresh herbs. There’s no need to invest in fancy equipment or complicated setups.
- Perfect for Small Batches: If you don’t have a lot of herbs to dry, the microwave method is ideal. You can dry small batches without wasting valuable counter or storage space.
What You’ll Need
Here’s a basic list of what you’ll need to dry herbs in the microwave:
- Fresh Herbs: The best herbs to dry in the microwave are hearty varieties such as rosemary, thyme, oregano, sage, and lavender. Soft, delicate herbs like basil and parsley may not dry as well and may lose their flavor more easily.
- Paper Towels: You’ll need two layers of paper towels to absorb moisture and protect the herbs during the microwaving process. Avoid using recycled paper towels, as they may contain small metal particles that aren’t safe for microwaving.
- Microwave-Safe Plate: A microwave-safe plate is necessary to spread the herbs evenly and ensure they dry uniformly.
- Storage Containers: After drying, you’ll need airtight containers to store your herbs. Glass jars, old spice containers, or any small airtight containers will work perfectly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to dry herbs in the microwave:
1. Prepare the Herbs
Start by washing your fresh herbs thoroughly under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry with a towel or let them air dry for a few minutes to remove excess moisture. It’s important to make sure the herbs are not too wet, as this will increase drying time and may cause them to become soggy.
2. Arrange the Herbs on Paper Towels
Lay down two layers of paper towels on a microwave-safe plate. Arrange the herbs in a single layer, making sure the leaves are evenly spaced. Overcrowding the plate can lead to uneven drying, so try to keep the herbs spread out.
3. Cover the Herbs
Once the herbs are arranged, cover them with another layer of paper towels. This will help absorb moisture and protect the herbs during the microwaving process. It also prevents them from flying around in the microwave.
4. Microwave the Herbs
Place the plate with the herbs in the microwave. Start by microwaving them on high for 1 minute. After the first minute, check the herbs for dryness. If they are still soft or wet, continue microwaving in 20-second bursts, checking after each interval. It may take about 6-7 rounds, but the total time will depend on the power of your microwave.
5. Test for Dryness
Once the herbs are completely dry, they should easily crumble when you press them between your fingers. If they still feel moist or pliable, microwave them for a few more seconds.
6. Crumble the Herbs
After the herbs are dried, let them cool for a minute or two. Then, crumble the herbs into smaller pieces. You can do this by simply twisting and crushing them inside the paper towels, or if you prefer a finer powder, use a mortar and pestle or a coffee grinder.
7. Store the Dried Herbs
Once the herbs are fully crumbled, transfer them to an airtight container. Store them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Glass jars or old spice containers work wonderfully for storing dried herbs.
Tips for Success
To ensure you get the best results when drying herbs in the microwave, follow these tips:
- Use Hearty Herbs: Herbs like rosemary, thyme, oregano, and sage are best for microwaving. These herbs are thicker and more durable, making them easier to dry quickly. Delicate herbs like basil or mint may not hold up well to microwave drying and may lose their aroma and flavor.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Spread the herbs in a single layer on the paper towels to allow air circulation and even drying. Overcrowding will prevent the herbs from drying properly and may cause uneven results.
- Microwave in Small Batches: If you’re drying a large quantity of herbs, it’s best to dry them in smaller batches. This allows each batch to dry more evenly and reduces the risk of burning or under-drying.
- Check Frequently: Microwaves vary in power, so it’s important to check your herbs regularly while drying. If they start to burn or become too crispy, stop microwaving and let them cool.
- Cool Before Storing: Always let your dried herbs cool completely before transferring them to storage containers. Storing them while they’re still warm can cause moisture to build up, leading to mold growth.
Variations to Try
While the microwave drying method works well for hearty herbs, there are a few other ways to get creative with your dried herbs:
- Flavored Herb Mixes: After drying individual herbs, consider mixing them together to create custom blends for specific recipes. For example, combine rosemary, thyme, and oregano to make an Italian seasoning mix, or mix lavender and rosemary for a calming herbal blend.
- Herb-Infused Oils: After drying your herbs, you can use them to infuse oils for cooking, salad dressings, or even skincare. Simply add the dried herbs to a bottle of olive oil and let it steep for a few weeks.
- Herbal Teas: Create your own herbal tea blends by drying herbs like chamomile, mint, or lemon balm in the microwave. After drying, you can combine the herbs and store them in jars for easy access to homemade teas.
Storing and Reheating
Once your herbs are dried and crumbled, it’s essential to store them properly to maintain their potency. Here’s how to store your dried herbs:
- Airtight Containers: Store your dried herbs in airtight containers such as glass jars, spice containers, or vacuum-sealed bags. The key is to keep out moisture and air to preserve the flavor.
- Cool, Dry Storage: Keep the containers in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. A cupboard or pantry is an ideal location for storing dried herbs.
- Avoid Reheating: Once dried, herbs should not be reheated. They have already been dried to preserve them, so adding heat after the process will not benefit the flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use any herbs to dry in the microwave?
A: While most herbs can be dried in the microwave, heartier herbs like rosemary, thyme, oregano, and sage work best. Softer herbs like basil and parsley may not dry well and can lose their flavor quickly.
Q: How long will dried herbs last?
A: Dried herbs can last for up to a year when stored properly in airtight containers in a cool, dry place. However, they may begin to lose their potency over time, so it’s best to use them within 6-12 months.
Q: Can I microwave herbs that have been washed with water?
A: Yes, but it’s important to dry the herbs thoroughly before microwaving them. Excess moisture can cause them to dry unevenly and may lead to sogginess.
The Final Word
Drying herbs in the microwave is a quick, easy, and energy-efficient method to preserve your fresh herbs. By following this simple guide, you can enjoy the flavor and aroma of summer herbs all year round. Whether you’re using them in cooking, teas, or homemade herbal blends, dried herbs are a versatile and cost-effective way to add a burst of flavor to your dishes. So, gather your fresh herbs, follow the steps, and start drying in the microwave today!