From Garden to Pantry: Creative Ways to Store Your Homegrown Herbs
If you're someone who loves to cook with fresh herbs, then chances are you've also tried growing them in your home garden. It's great being able to step outside and grab some basil, thyme, or rosemary to add to your dish, but what do you do when you have too many herbs and not enough recipes to use them in?
That's where creative herb storage ideas come in handy! Let's explore some options for storing your homegrown herbs, so you can enjoy them all year long.
Drying Herbs
One of the most traditional ways to store herbs is by drying them. All you need is a dark, dry place and some time. You can hang them in bunches or spread them out on a flat surface. Once they are completely dry, you can store them in an airtight container for up to a year.
Freezing Herbs
If you have herbs that you don't plan on using before they go bad, freezing them is a great option. You can chop them up and store them in ice cube trays with olive oil or water. Once frozen, pop them out and store in a freezer bag or container.
Infusing Oil or Vinegar
Infusing oil or vinegar with herbs is not only a great way to use up an abundance of herbs but also a tasty addition to your kitchen. Simply fill up a jar with your herbs and oil or vinegar, let it sit for a few weeks, and strain out the herbs.
Making Herb Butter
Herb butter is a delicious way to incorporate herbs into your meals. Soften butter, mix in some chopped herbs, and re-solidify in the fridge. It's perfect for spreading on bread, tossing with pasta, or using as a sauce for grilled meats.
Creating Herb Salt or Sugar
Herb salt or sugar is a unique way to store your herbs and add some flavor to your dishes. For herb salt, grind your herbs and mix with coarse salt. For herb sugar, mix with granulated sugar instead. Store in airtight containers and use as a seasoning for your favorite dishes.
In conclusion, when it comes to storing your homegrown herbs, there are many creative ways to do so. Whether you choose to dry, freeze, infuse, make butter, or create salt and sugar, you'll be able to enjoy the flavors of your herbs all year long. Happy herb storing!