This tutorial will teach you how to dry parsley in the microwave in easy and quick steps. Don't let that parsley or other herbs go to waste, learn how to dry it using your microwave so you can use it later. This process is not only fast and easy but will also preserve the color and flavor of the herb.
Dried Parsley Leaves
Parsley is a flavorful herb that is commonly used in cooking. Dried parsley is my go-to when I need to season any food, boil chicken, beef, and more. If you have fresh parsley that you need to store for later use, one option is to dry it.
There are different ways to dry herbs. You can either use a dehydrator which can take up to 4 hours, or air dry (using the natural sun), which can take up to 2 days or even longer depend on the quantity. There is also the oven method but you can guess it does take a good few hours as well and is not energy sufficient.
That said, using a microwave is one of the quickest methods especially if you are drying leftover fresh herbs in small quantities. In just a few minutes, you can have dried parsley ready to be stored or used in recipes.
Related post: how to dry cilantro in the microwave.
Tool needed
A microwave: Please note that the wattage of your microwave will determine how many minutes it will take to dry the parsley. For this tutorial, I am using a 900-watt microwave.
Paper towels
Microwave safe plate
Storage container or bags to store the dried herbs
How to dry parsley in the microwave
Start by rinsing the parsley in water to remove any dirt or debris. Gently shake off the excess water and pat dry with a kitchen paper towel or leave to air dry if time is not of the essence. You want to make sure the parsley is as dry as possible so it doesn't end up steaming in the microwave. Remove any yellow or wilted leaves at this point.
Line a microwave-safe plate with a kitchen paper towel, and spread the parsley on top paper towel
Place the plate in the microwave, using the microwave at full power, microwave the parsley for 60 seconds, and open the microwave to check if the parsley is dry. If not, continue to microwave in 30-second increments until it is completely dried out.
You will know when herbs are dry, they crumble easily, and stems snap when you bend them. Dried parsley can be used in many recipes that call for fresh parsley. Store it in an airtight container. Dried parsley can last up to 6 months stored in a cool and dark place.
PS: don't forget the herbs in the microwave, the stem can easily catch fire!
How To Dry Parsley In The Microwave
Ingredients
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
- Start by rinsing the parsley in water to remove any dirt or debris. Gently shake off the excess water and pat dry with a kitchen paper towel or leave to air dry if time is not of the essence. Remove any yellow or wilted leaves at this point.
- Line a microwave-safe plate with a kitchen paper towel, and spread the parsley on top paper towel
- Place the plate in the microwave, using the microwave at full power, microwave the parsley for 60 seconds, and open the microwave to check if the parsley is dry. If not, continue to microwave in 30-second increments until it is completely dried out.
- You will know when herbs are dry, they crumble easily, and stems snap when you bend them. Store it in an airtight container. Dried parsley can last up to 6 months in an airtight container stored in a cool and dark place.
Notes
- Make sure the parsley is as dry as possible before microwaving so it doesn't end up steaming.
- Don't forget the herbs in the microwave, it can easily catch fire!
FAQs
How to dry herbs naturally
To dry herbs naturally, you will have to hang them by hanging. You will need to tie them together in small bundles and hang them upside down in a dark and cool place. This process can take up to 2 weeks using dry warm air. Do keep an eye on the herbs as they can easily go moldy if left unattended.
What are the best containers to store dried herbs
The best way to store dried herbs is in an airtight container in a cool and dark place and away from direct sunlight. This will help to preserve the flavor and color of the herb. You can also store them in ziplock bags, however, do make sure to squeeze all the air out before sealing the bag.
How to dry herbs in the oven
To dry herbs in the oven, you will need to set the oven temperature to the lowest setting possible about 170F/76C. Place the herbs on a baking sheet and put them in the oven with the door slightly opened to let moisture escape. The drying process will take a few hours, depending on how dry you want the herbs to be. Check on the herbs every 30 minutes or so to make sure they are not burning. When they are done, let them cool completely, crumble them between your fingers and store them in an airtight container. Place the herbs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and put them in the oven.
More how-to tutorials
How to cook pasta in the microwave
How to boil potatoes in the microwave
Steamed green beans in the microwave
How to cut chicken breast into cutlets
I hope you found this article helpful, Do you have any tips on how to dry herbs? Share them in the comments below! Don't forget to leave feedback and save it to your Pinterest.
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