Drying Herbs - Nesco American Harvest FD-2000 Guide D'entretien Et D'utilisation

DRYING HERBS

Fresh herbs and spices have a stronger aroma and flavor than commercial dried
herbs and spices They are prized by food lovers and gourmet cooks
Dried herbs and spices are used more often than fresh because they are more
readily available and convenient to use. Although some flavor is lost when they are
dried, it becomes more concentrated because so much moisture is removed Most
herbs contain from 70 to 85 percent water Eight ounces of fresh herbs will yield
about one ounce dried
Gathering Herbs
The flower, seeds, leaves and stems of herbs can all be used for seasoning. Leaves
and stems should be gathered early in the morning before the heat of the sun
dissipates the flavoring oils.
Leaves should be harvested before plant begins to flower and while still tender. Snip
stems at base, taking care to leave sufficient foliage for plant to continue growing.
The new leaves at tip of plant have the most concentrated flavor.
Plants usually survive three or four major harvests and, depending on climate, may
produce all year round Cold frames extend growing season and a sunny kitchen
window will allow potted herbs to produce all year long
When plants have begun to flower, a bitter taste develops and leaves are not as
aromatic because the energy has gone into producing buds
The flowers of some herbs may be used for seasoning. They should be harvested
when they first open and while still very fresh. Seeds, such as caraway or mustard,
are harvested when they are fully mature and have changed from brown to gray
Preparation
Leaves and stems should be lightly washed under cold running water to remove any
dust or insects Remove any dead or discolored portions
To dry large-leafed herbs, such as basil and sage, strip leaves from stem, cut in half
across the leaf and place on a Clean-A-Screen lined tray Cutting allows dry air to
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get inside the stem and will shorten drying time
To dry small-leafed herbs, like thyme, place on a Clean-A-Screen lined tray This
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helps keep dried herbs from falling through tray. As small herbs dry, they may fly
around inside dehydrator If this happens, place another screen over drying herbs to
keep them in place
If flowers are to be used in teas, dry them whole. Wash and separate petals, and
remove any tough or discolored parts When seedpods have dried, their outer
covering may be removed Rub seeds between palms of your hands while blowing to
remove husks Place larger seeds on a Clean-A-Screen sheet Dehydrate until there
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is no moisture evident If seeds are to be used for planting, dry at room temperature
to maintain germination ability
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