Dry herbs in the microwave.
If you buy fresh cilantro or grow your own basil, you can use
your microwave to dry out herbs. Drying allows you to store unused
portions or dry up a small amount for an extra-tasty spice rub!
Materials Needed:
Herbs
Plate
Paper Towel/Paper Plate (optional)
Microwave
Instructions
1. Wash Herbs: Herbs with thick stems work best for this method, though
any will suffice. Rinse and spin out in a salad spinner to eliminate any
remaining water (or wash and dry each leaf by hand). Place on a towel
to catch any extra water that's still hanging on.
2. De-Stem Leaves: Since the goal of dehydration is to remove all the
water stored inside the plant, removing the leaves not only allows extra
evaporation points, but allows for even drying.
3. Heat Herbs: Place herbs on a paper towel on a plate, or on a paper
plate if you have one handy. The process works without them, but they
will help things dry quickly and evenly as they wick away water. Place
in microwave in a single layer and microwave on full power for 30
seconds. Repeat the process until leaves are crunchy and thicker stems
snap when flexed. Some herbs will take up to 3-4 minutes, while thinner
ones might only take a minute or two. (if you don't use a paper towel,
make sure to move each leaf between rotations so it doesn't sit in it's
own herby-juices)
4. Store: Herbs will keep in any air tight container for up to a year.
Add them to your usual dishes for a bit of added flavor.