If you have an abundance of fresh parsley and you want to prolong its shelf life, then drying is an excellent option. Drying parsley is easy and can be done in various ways. In this article, we will guide you on how to dry parsley properly, so you can enjoy it all year round.
Methods of Drying Parsley
Sun Drying
Sun drying is the easiest and most traditional way of drying parsley. All you need to do is to harvest the parsley, remove the damaged leaves, and tie the stems with a string. Then, hang the parsley outside in a sunny and airy spot. Make sure to cover it with a cheesecloth or a net to keep the bugs away. The drying process can take up to two weeks. Once the parsley is dry, remove the leaves from the stems and store them in an airtight container.
Oven Drying
Oven drying is the fastest way to dry parsley, but it requires more attention. Preheat your oven to 180°F (82°C). Spread the parsley leaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they don't overlap. Place the sheet in the oven and leave the door slightly open to allow the steam to escape. The drying process can take up to an hour. Once the parsley is dry, remove the leaves from the stems and store them in an airtight container.
Dehydrator Drying
A dehydrator is a popular and efficient way to dry herbs, including parsley. Remove the parsley leaves from the stems and spread them on the dehydrator tray. Set the temperature to 95°F (35°C) and leave them for 2-4 hours. Once the parsley is dry, remove the leaves from the stems and store them in an airtight container.
Microwave Drying
Microwave drying is the quickest way to dry parsley, but it can also be the most unpredictable. Place the parsley leaves on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a paper towel. Microwave them for 1-2 minutes on high power, checking them every 30 seconds. Once the parsley is dry, remove the leaves from the stems and store them in an airtight container.
Freeze Drying
Freeze drying is an excellent way to preserve the color and flavor of parsley. Wash and dry the parsley leaves, then place them on a baking sheet and freeze for 24 hours. Once frozen, transfer the leaves to a freezer bag and store them in the freezer for up to six months.
Air Drying
Air drying is a simple and convenient way to dry parsley without any special equipment. Wash and dry the parsley leaves, then spread them on a clean, dry towel. Leave them in a well-ventilated area for 2-3 days or until completely dry. Once the parsley is dry, remove the leaves from the stems and store them in an airtight container.
How to Store Dried Parsley
Container
Store the dried parsley in an airtight container, away from sunlight, heat, and moisture. A glass jar with a tight-fitting lid is an ideal container for storing dried parsley.
Labeling
Label the container with the date of drying and the name of the herb. This will help you keep track of the freshness of the herb and avoid confusion.
Shelf Life
The shelf life of dried parsley is up to one year if stored properly. However, the flavor and aroma may start to fade after six months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a food dehydrator to dry parsley?
Yes, a food dehydrator is an excellent tool for drying parsley. Set the temperature to 95°F (35°C) and leave the parsley leaves for 2-4 hours.
Can I dry parsley in the microwave?
Yes, you can dry parsley in the microwave. Place the parsley leaves on a microwave-safe plate, cover them with a paper towel, and microwave them for 1-2 minutes on high power, checking them every 30 seconds.
Can I dry parsley in the oven?
Yes, you can dry parsley in the oven. Preheat your oven to 180°F (82°C), spread the parsley leaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and leave them for up to an hour.
How long does it take to dry parsley?
The drying time depends on the drying method you use. Sun drying can take up to two weeks, while oven and dehydrator drying can take a few hours.
How do I know if the parsley is dry?
The parsley is dry when the leaves are crispy and crumble easily when rubbed between your fingers.
What is the best way to store dried parsley?
Store the dried parsley in an airtight container, away from sunlight, heat, and moisture.
What is the shelf life of dried parsley?
The shelf life of dried parsley is up to one year if stored properly.
Can I freeze dried parsley?
Yes, you can freeze dried parsley for up to six months.
Do I need to wash the parsley before drying it?
Yes, wash the parsley thoroughly before drying it to remove any dirt or debris.
Pros of Drying Parsley
Drying parsley prolongs its shelf life and preserves its flavor and aroma. It also makes it easier to store and use in recipes.
Tips for Drying Parsley
Harvest parsley in the morning when the leaves are dry and crisp. Remove any damaged leaves and wash the parsley thoroughly before drying it. When drying parsley, make sure to choose a method that suits your needs and equipment. Store the dried parsley in an airtight container, labeled with the date of drying and the name of the herb.
Summary
Drying parsley is an excellent way to preserve its flavor and aroma. You can dry parsley using various methods, including sun drying, oven drying, dehydrator drying, microwave drying, air drying, and freeze drying. Once dried, store the parsley in an airtight container away from sunlight, heat, and moisture. The shelf life of dried parsley is up to one year if stored properly. With these tips and tricks, you can enjoy fresh parsley all year round.