Drying herbs for tea is a simple yet rewarding way to enjoy your garden’s bounty all year round. Whether it’s the refreshing aroma of mint, the sweetness of stevia, or the rich fragrance of holy basil, dried tea herbs can deliver the same nutrients and essential oils as fresh ones, offering a variety of health benefits. Here are three popular methods for drying herbs for tea:
1. Air-Drying Herbs
Air-drying herbs is a traditional method, but it can sometimes result in a less than ideal product. When drying herbs by hanging them, be mindful of a few potential issues: spiders or insects can hitch a ride, exposure to light can degrade flavor and nutrients, and high humidity can lead to mold.
- Best practice: Hang herbs in small bunches in a shady, well-ventilated area. If you have too many herbs for your dehydrator, start air-drying in a mesh hanging net.
- Pros: Great for larger amounts and a simple process.
- Cons: Requires a dry, airy environment and careful monitoring to prevent mold.
2. Drying Herbs in a Dehydrator
A dehydrator is one of the best methods for drying tea herbs quickly and efficiently, especially for larger batches. The key is to set the dehydrator to a low temperature (under 110°F or 43°C) to preserve the herbs’ flavor and nutrients.
- Best practice: Place the herbs on the dehydrator trays, with some stems still attached. The leaves will dry within hours, after which they can be stripped off and stored.
- Pros: Fast, efficient, and preserves the herbs’ quality.
- Cons: Requires a dehydrator and could be too much for small batches.
3. Drying Herbs in a Microwave
For small batches of herbs, using a microwave is a fun and efficient method. It allows you to see the moisture being removed from the leaves and is particularly good for quick drying.
- Best practice: Place a layer of herbs on a plate, cover with a paper towel, and microwave for 45 seconds on high. Repeat the process until the leaves are crisp.
- Pros: Quick, easy, and perfect for small amounts.
- Cons: Not ideal for large quantities and can be a bit tricky to get the timing just right.
Storing Dried Tea Herbs
Once your herbs are dried, store them in airtight containers such as glass canning jars or snap-top coffee cans. Keep them in a cool, dark place to maintain their color and potency. When you’re ready to brew your tea, crumble the dried leaves just before steeping to release their full aroma and flavor.
Enjoy a soothing cup of homegrown herbal tea all year long, knowing you’ve captured the essence of your garden in every sip!