Drying Bay leaves

**Scarlet** · 07-06-2014, 06:42 PM

I've never used a microwave for drying herbs. In the past I've just cut a branch off and hung it in a cool room, if you need to keep the dust off put it in a large pillowcase. I know that "chefs" say that this is a herb that is best used dry but to be honest, I don't find they taste that much different and the bush stays green all year so I usually run out to the garden and grab a fresh one!

**Scarlet** · 07-06-2014, 06:45 PM

Ok... Just had a G@@gle:
1.Wash the herbs in cool water, swishing them around to remove any dirt or dust from the leaves. Lift the herbs out of the water and pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel.
2.Lay the herbs in a single layer on a microwaveable plate and microwave in 30-second sessions, turning the leaves over between each session.
3.Repeat until the leaves are completely dry and brittle, usually within 4 to 6 sessions (a total of 2 to 3 minutes microwaving time).

**Bren In Pots** · 07-06-2014, 07:22 PM

I find it easier to put some leaves in the freezer to use overwinter.

**veggiechicken** · 07-06-2014, 07:46 PM

Like Scarlet, I pick fresh bay leaves all year round, whenever I need some. The only ones I "dry" are the prunings - then just hang up a sprig until its dry. Nothing clever

**Nicos** · 07-06-2014, 08:06 PM

^^^^ same here.

**Greenleaves** · 07-06-2014, 08:25 PM

Thanks all, I have a go at the mv method as well as the hanging up.

**Raybon** · 07-06-2014, 08:29 PM

I hang mine in a bay window.........

**TrialAndError** · 20-06-2014, 09:36 PM

I did a comparison some time ago on drying basil naturally compared to drying it in the microwave. From a personal opinion the aroma and flavour appeared to be far more intense with microwaved ones. That's a subjective opinion of course.

But what is clearly objective is that microwave dried basil retains a deep green colour whereas naturally dried basil was far browner. Try it for yourself. I go for the microwave option every time.

**snakeshack** · 20-06-2014, 11:21 PM

I only ever use it fresh myself but dry in the dehydrator or on the car dashboard on a cooling rack to give away

Sent from my iPhone using Grow Your Own Forum

**Two_Sheds** · 21-06-2014, 08:04 AM

Originally posted by snakeshack View Post

on the car dashboard ...

a business opportunity: organic natural car fresheners

personally I keep a pair of hiking boots in the tailgate as freshener: they sure smell better than dog farts

**Bill HH** · 21-06-2014, 08:31 AM

In my humble opinion fresh is best. Why would drying do anything but reduce the flavour? I have made a bay tree into a standard (they make excellent standards) and its just outside the kitchen.

**Ananke** · 21-06-2014, 08:52 AM

Originally posted by Raybon View Post

I hang mine in a bay window.........

I'll get your coat.

Permission to hijack your thread?

I bought a rooted bay cutting at an allotment plant sale last week. It is just a single "twig" and has lots of nice leaves. Should I pinch the top to encourage side growth?

**Raybon** · 21-06-2014, 09:37 AM

I am wearing so many coats..........

I wouldn't pinch out the top, it will need to get a nice strong stem then develop nice side shoots naturally....this has been my experience, anyway. I now have a lovely full-grown bay tree.
Hijacking permitted, tho' not sure what it means!

**Glutton4...** · 21-06-2014, 12:19 PM

I find it easier to buy them!

But then, I don't have a Bay tree.

S'ok, coat in hand...

Oh, and TS, you obviously haven't been near my hiking boots - dog farts win, hands down! lol

*Trots off to €B@y to buy a Bay tree...

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