Everyday access to fresh herbs – sounds like a dream, right? Today, we’ll delve into the world of preserving herbs with six different techniques, courtesy of the “More Enjoyment” bloggers Kathi and Tom.
In our fast-paced lives, having an assortment of flavorful herbs readily available can elevate any dish. However, keeping them fresh for an extended period poses a challenge. That’s where Kathi and Tom come in, sharing their wisdom on how to make the most of these precious plants.
1. Freezing: Take advantage of the freezer’s preserving power by freezing your herbs. Begin by washing them thoroughly and patting them dry. Remove any wilted leaves or damaged parts. Next, chop the herbs finely and distribute them evenly across ice cube trays. Fill each compartment with water, olive oil, or vegetable broth, depending on your preference. Once frozen, transfer the herb-infused cubes into freezer-safe containers, ensuring they are properly labeled for future use. This technique is perfect for soups, stews, and sauces.
2. Drying: An age-old method that never fails, drying herbs allows you to savor their flavors long after harvest season ends. First, gather small bunches of herbs, tie them together at the stem with a string, and hang them upside down in a cool, well-ventilated area. Leave them undisturbed for about two weeks, or until the leaves become dry and crumbly to the touch. Once dried, store the herbs in airtight containers away from direct sunlight. Ground or crush the herbs just before using them to preserve their aromatic essence.
3. Herb-infused oils: Elevate your culinary creations by infusing oils with the essence of your favorite herbs. Start by selecting fresh, fragrant herbs and gently washing them. Allow the herbs to air dry completely to avoid any water contamination. Place the herbs in sterilized glass jars and cover them with a high-quality oil, such as olive or sunflower oil. Seal the jars tightly and store them in a cool, dark place for two to three weeks, allowing the oils to absorb the herb’s flavors. Strain the herbs from the oil using a fine mesh sieve, and transfer the infused oils into clean, airtight bottles.
4. Herb butters: Indulge in the rich, smooth taste of herb-infused butter that can effortlessly enhance your dishes. Begin by softening unsalted butter at room temperature. Meanwhile, finely chop your selected herbs. Incorporate the herbs into the softened butter and mix thoroughly until well combined. Shape the herb butter into a log using plastic wrap, then refrigerate or freeze it until firm. Slice off portions as needed to add a burst of flavor to grilled meats, vegetables, or warm crusty bread.
5. Herbal vinegars: Turn ordinary vinegar into a tangy delight infused with herbal goodness. Choose a high-quality vinegar base, such as white wine or apple cider vinegar. Fill sterilized glass bottles about halfway with your selected herbs, ensuring they are clean and dry. Heat the vinegar in a saucepan until it reaches a gentle simmer, then pour it over the herbs in the bottles, making sure they are fully submerged. Seal the bottles tightly and store them in a cool, dark place for approximately four to six weeks. Once the desired intensity is achieved, strain the herbal vinegar and decant it into smaller, attractive bottles for your kitchen collection.
6. Herb salts: Add a sprinkle of herb-infused salt to elevate your dishes’ flavors to new heights. Combine coarse sea salt with finely chopped herbs of your choice, adjusting the ratios to suit your taste preferences. Mix the two ingredients together thoroughly and spread the mixture onto a baking sheet. Allow it to air dry for several days until the herbs are completely dried and the salt has regained its original texture. Store the herb salt in airtight containers for future use, indulging in the delightful combination of herbal aromas fused with the subtle salinity.
With these six techniques, Kathi and Tom empower you to extend the lifespan of your favorite herbs, ensuring they continue to bring joy to your culinary endeavors. Whether frozen, dried, infused, or combined with seasonings, these preserved herbs will allow you to embark on a flavorful journey every time you step into the kitchen.
