At Arrows Farm, we're passionate about maximizing the flavors and benefits of our homegrown herbs. One of our favorite methods for preserving the freshness of parsley is by drying it. Not only does dried parsley retain its vibrant green color and robust flavor, but it also allows you to enjoy this versatile herb year-round. In this blog post, we'll share a simple and effective method for drying parsley using your oven, along with tips for storing it to maintain its quality.
Ingredients:
- Fresh parsley leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 170°F (or the lowest setting available). The low temperature is essential for gently drying the parsley without causing it to burn.
2. Prepare the Parsley: Wash the parsley leaves with water and vinegar In a salad spinner and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Remove any stems and discard any wilted or discolored leaves.
3. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the parsley leaves in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure the leaves are evenly spaced to allow for proper airflow.
4. Bake at Low Heat: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the parsley leaves for approximately 20 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to prevent over-drying. The parsley is ready when it is crisp and crumbles easily between your fingers.
5. Cool and Crumble: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the dried parsley leaves to cool completely. Once cooled, gently crumble the leaves between your fingers or use a mortar and pestle to break them into smaller pieces.
6. Store in Glass Jars: Transfer the dried parsley flakes to small glass jars with airtight lids. Store the jars in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Properly dried and stored parsley can maintain its quality for up to 2-3 years.
Tips for Success:
- Use fresh parsley for the best flavor and aroma.
- Make sure the parsley leaves are completely dry before placing them in the oven to prevent mold or spoilage.
- Keep a close eye on the parsley while it's baking to avoid over-drying, which can result in loss of flavor.
- Store dried parsley in glass jars to protect it from moisture and light, which can degrade its quality over time.
With this simple method, you can enjoy the taste of freshly dried parsley in your favorite dishes throughout the year. Whether sprinkled over pasta, added to soups and stews, or used as a garnish, dried parsley adds a burst of flavor and color to any meal. Give it a try and experience the difference that homemade dried herbs can make in your culinary creations!
Happy drying!
The Arrows Farm
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