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How to Dry Herbs in the Microwave

Drying herbs in the microwave using the glass Anyday dish, ensuring a quick and efficient way to preserve fresh herbs for future use.
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Prep Time

2 mins

Cook Time

2-3 mins
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Free Time

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How to Dry Herbs in the Microwave

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All of Anyday’s recipes are tested (and retested!) in many different microwave and home kitchens to make sure they work— and work well. Unless specified otherwise, all recipes should be cooked at full power.

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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 microwave and home kitchens to make sure they work— and work well. Unless specified otherwise, all recipes should be cooked at full power.

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The Medium Shallow Dish

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Select your serving size and microwave wattage in the dropdown. The recipe will change accordingly.

1/2 bunch
  • 1/2 bunch
  • 1 bunch
✕

Select your microwave wattage in the dropdown. The cook times in this recipe will automatically change accordingly.

[[video-wattage]]

To find your microwave’s wattage, look at the front panel, the side of the door, in the back, in the user manual, or Google the model number. If both an input and output wattage are listed, use the output.

Wattage translates to how powerful the microwave is. The higher the wattage, the faster your food will cook. The lower the wattage, the longer the cook time.

When in doubt, start with less time — you can always add more.

700w
  • 700w
  • 800w
  • 900w
  • 1000w
  • 1100w
  • 1200w

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Dish

The Medium Shallow Dish

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Remove from the dish and allow herbs to cool. Gently crumble the leaves with your fingers or in a food processor for finer pieces.
  4. Keep the dried herbs in an air-tight container for up to 6 months.

Suggestions

  • Add the dried herbs to sauces, eggs, pasta, rice, or any basic ingredients for extra flavor.
  • Add it to dressings for a delicious fresh touch.
  • Sprinkle it over cheesy garlic bread for a herby twist.
  • Mix them into softened butter and portion into our Anytime Freezer Trays. Freeze for up to 1 year.

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
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Step by Step: Drying Herbs in the Microwave

Separate the leaves and add them to the Shallow Anyday dish

Microwave the dish uncovered

Crush the dried leaves

Transfer the crushed leaves into a jar

Store for up to 6 months!

All You Need to Know About How to Dry Herbs in the Microwave

Can I dry fresh 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
Cook time calculated for 700w microwave

Yes! You can dry a wide range of herbs in the microwave using Anyday dishes, including parsley, dill, chives, thyme, sage, tarragon, cilantro, basil, and more. Each herb will dehydrate in a similar amount of time, but the quantity can slightly affect the timing. Always start with the lower end of the cook time range and add more if needed.

How long does it take to dry herbs in the microwave, and what are the typical drying times?

Typically, it takes around 2-4 minutes to dry one bunch of herbs in an Anyday dish, depending on the type and moisture content, and microwave wattage. F monitoring is crucial to prevent over-drying.

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 using Anyday dishes, 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.

Does microwaving herbs affect their flavor or aroma?

When done correctly using Anyday dishes, microwaving herbs preserves their flavor and aroma.The process is so quick that the herbs will retain most of their fresh flavor and vibrant color, in stark contrast to store-bought alternatives that are usually dried using low temperatures for long periods, affecting the color of the leaves and degrading the flavor.

How should I store herbs after drying them in the microwave?

After drying herbs in the microwave with Anyday dishes, allow them to cool completely and then store them in either a small Anyday dish with the lid and knob in the closing position or a mason jar or spice container of your choosing. Keep the container in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight to maintain freshness for up to six months.

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 with Anyday dishes. However, be sure to pat them dry thoroughly before microwaving to avoid excess moisture.

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