Drying and Storing Fresh Herbs

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Drying and Storing Fresh Herbs: A Flavorful Guide with PackFreshUSA

Fresh herbs add a burst of flavor to your culinary creations, but what do you do when the growing season is over? Drying and storing herbs is a simple yet effective way to preserve their vibrant flavors for year-round use. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps of drying and storing fresh herbs, introducing you to PackFreshUSA's premium packaging solutions for long-term preservation.

Drying Fresh Herbs

Harvesting

Choose a time when the herbs are at their best, usually in the morning after the dew has evaporated but before the sun is too hot. Harvest healthy-looking leaves and stems.

Cleaning

Gently wash the herbs in cold water to remove any dirt or insects. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.

Bundling

Group a small bunch of herbs together, about 5-10 stems, and tie the stems together with twine or a rubber band. This will help them dry uniformly.

Hanging

Hang the bundles upside down in a dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. A dark room or a closet works well. Make sure the herbs have enough space around them for air circulation.

Drying Time

The drying process can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the herb's moisture content and the humidity of your environment. The herbs are ready when they feel crispy and crumble easily.

A faster alternative is to freeze dry your herbs. Click HERE to see our blog post regarding Freeze Drying food.

Storing Dried Herbs

De-stemming

Once the herbs are dry, gently remove the leaves from the stems. Discard the stems and any discolored or damaged leaves.

Crushing

You can crush the dried leaves by hand or use a mortar and pestle to break them into smaller pieces. This will help release their flavors when you use them.

Storage Containers

Store the dried herbs in airtight containers to prevent moisture and light from degrading their quality. Glass jars with tight-fitting lids or resealable plastic bags work well.

A great option is our PackFreshUSA® Mylar Gusset Bags, available in both 7 Mil & 5 Mil thickness per side. Gusset bags offer exceptional quality with rounded corners for added protection, featuring a robust Mylar film with a burst strength equivalent to the weight of 5 cinder blocks per square inch.

 

Our 7 Mil bags provide durable long-term storage, offering increased puncture protection, improved durability, and superior resistance to oxygen and moisture, ensuring over 100 years of protection when used with oxygen absorbers. Additionally, the bags are resealable with a Seal-Top feature for convenient opening and closing, while their low Oxygen Transmission Rate (OTR) provides three layers of protection, safeguarding food for extended preservation.

Moisture Control

Consider incorporating a desiccant into your packaging to effectively manage moisture. Desiccants act as buffers, regulating moisture levels and preventing the growth of mold and other harmful organisms. Explore our selection of Food-Safe Natural Desiccants HERE, known for being natural, non-toxic, acid-free, and environmentally friendly.

Labeling

Clearly label each container with the name of the herb and the date of drying. This helps you keep track of freshness.

Storage Location

Store the containers in a cool, dark, and dry place, such as a pantry or cupboard. Avoid placing them near the stove, as heat and light can degrade the herbs' flavor and potency.

Additional Tips

  • Use Fresh Herbs: The best flavor and aroma are preserved when you dry fresh herbs at their peak.
  • Choose Low-Humidity Days: If possible, choose low-humidity days for drying herbs. High humidity can slow down the drying process and increase the risk of mold.
  • Microwave or Oven Drying: In a pinch, you can use a microwave or oven to dry herbs quickly. However, this method can cause the herbs to lose some flavor and color if not done carefully.
  • Freezing: Alternatively, you can freeze herbs by chopping them finely and placing them in ice cube trays with a bit of water or olive oil. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a sealed freezer bag and use them as needed.

Summary

Preserving the flavors of fresh herbs is a rewarding process that enhances your culinary experiences throughout the year. With PackFreshUSA's premium packaging solutions, including Mylar Gusset Bags and Natural Clay Desiccants, you can extend the life of your dried herbs while maintaining their optimal taste and aroma. Explore our packaging options and embark on a flavorful journey with PackFreshUSA!

Visit PackFreshUSA for premium packaging solutions for your herbs and more.

 

If you have questions about emergency food storage, selecting the right packaging or product for your needs, don't hesitate to reach out to us at:

5starservice@packfreshusa.com - Toll Free: (844) 857-8277

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