How to Dry Herbs in the Microwave
Prep Time
2 minsCook Time
2-3 minsFree Time
to make some labels for your herbs
Say goodbye to dull, store-bought herbs and hello to vibrant, flavorful goodness. With the microwave method of drying herbs, we preserve vibrant colors and aroma of fresh herbs. But the real magic lies in the unbelievable flavor. This recipe is not only practical but also a fantastic way to make the most of your fresh herbs and reduce waste. Plus, freshly dried herbs make wonderful gifts!
All of Anyday’s recipes are tested (and retested!) in many different microwaves and home kitchens to make sure they work — and work well.
What You’ll Need
What You’ll Need
The Medium Shallow Dish
The Anyhand Mitts
Ingredients
½ bunch of either
- Parsley, stems removed or
- Basil, stems removed or
- Cilantro, stems removed or
- Tarragon, stems removed or
- Dill, stems removed or
- Rosemary, stems removed or
- Chives, whole or
- Thyme, whole
Preparation
- Clean herbs, then place the leaves in the Anyday making sure they are in a layer not thicker than 1/2 inch. Some herbs like thyme, or chives do not need to have their stems removed and can go whole in the dish.
- Cook uncovered for 2-3 minutes or until the herbs become greener, dry, and crunch slightly in your fingers when carefully handled. Note: Parsley, cilantro, dill, chives, basil, and tarragon may stick to the dish slightly, which is normal. Gently scrape the herbs that stick to the dish with a rubber spatula as you crumble it.
- Remove from the dish and allow herbs to cool. Gently crumble the leaves with your fingers or in a food processor for finer pieces.
- Keep the dried herbs in an air-tight container for up to 6 months.
Serving suggestions & tips
Recipe notes
- Once the herbs are ready, save for up to 6 months in an air-tight container in a dry place such as a pantry or herb drawer.
- Herbs such as parsley, cilantro, tarragon, or basil may stick to the dish slightly, which is normal. Gently scrape the herbs that stick to the dish with a rubber spatula as you crumble it.
- Microwave ovens vary, even with the same wattages. Adjust cooking times as needed.
Microwave Match Up: Dried Herbs
See for yourself— microwaving fresh herbs to dry is simply faster, start to finish.
| Appliance | Cook Time |
|---|---|
| Microwave | 2-4 mins |
| Dehydrator | 1-3 hours |
Step by Step: Drying Herbs in the Microwave
All You Need to Know About Microwaving Recipe
How long does it take to dry herbs in the microwave?
| Ingredient | Cook Time | Lid |
|---|---|---|
| 1 bunch of parsley leaves, stems removed | 2-4 mins | uncovered |
| 1 bunch of basil leaves, stems removed | 2-4 mins | uncovered |
| 1 bunch of cilantro leaves, stems removed | 2-4 mins | uncovered |
| 1 bunch of chervil leaves, stems removed | 2-4 mins | uncovered |
| 1 bunch of rosemary leaves, stems removed | 2-4 mins | uncovered |
| 1 bunch of dill, stems removed | 2-4 mins | uncovered |
| 1 bunch of thyme, whole sprigs | 2-4 mins | uncovered |
| 1 bunch of tarragon, whole sprigs | 2-4 mins | uncovered |
| 1 bunch of chives, cut into pieces | 2-4 mins | uncovered |
Typically, it takes around 2-4 minutes to dry 1 bunch of herbs, depending on the type. To check if the herbs are successfully dried, look for dry, crunchy leaves that crumble easily. If they are still slightly wet, continue drying, being careful not to burn them.
Can I dry any type of herb in the microwave?
Absolutely! You can dry a wide range of herbs in the microwave, including parsley, dill, chives, thyme, sage, tarragon, cilantro, basil, and more. Each herb may require different drying times, so keep a close eye on them during the process.
What are the typical drying times for herbs in the microwave?
The drying time varies based on the herb type, its moisture content, and the microwave wattage. Generally, herbs can be dried in 2-3 minutes, but frequent monitoring is crucial to prevent over-drying.
Does microwaving herbs affect their flavor or aroma?
When done correctly, microwaving herbs will preserve their flavor and aroma effectively. However, avoid over-drying to prevent any loss of flavor or aroma.
How should I store herbs after drying them in the microwave?
After drying herbs in the microwave, allow them to cool completely and then store them in an airtight container. Keep the container in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight to maintain freshness for up to 6 months easily.
Will dried herbs maintain their color and aroma after microwaving?
Yes! Microwaving preserves the vibrant color and fresh aroma of herbs. Unlike store-bought or dehydrated herbs, microwave-dried herbs retain their original color and aroma, enhancing the flavor of dishes without any bitterness.
Can I use homemade dried herbs immediately?
Yes! Once dried, you can use microwave-dried herbs in your cooking right away. Simply crush or crumble them into your dishes for added flavor and aroma.
Is it necessary to wash the herbs before drying them in the microwave?
It's a good idea to rinse fresh herbs under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris before drying them in the microwave. However, be sure to pat them dry thoroughly before microwaving to avoid excess moisture.
Can I dry large quantities of herbs in the microwave at once?
While it's possible to dry larger quantities of herbs in the microwave, it's essential to ensure they are spread out in a single layer to allow for proper airflow and even drying. You may need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding and ensure optimal results.
