How to dry oregano: preserving flavor and freshness
– There are three methods to dry oregano: oven drying, food dehydrator, and air drying.
– Oven drying takes 1-3 hours at a temperature of 105ºF/40ºC.
– Air drying is the easiest and most cost-effective method. It takes 1-2 weeks for the oregano leaves to dry.
– When air drying, make a bundle of oregano sprigs and hang them upside down in a well-ventilated area away from sunlight. Paper bags can be used to catch loose leaves and seeds.
– Dried oregano can be used in Lebanese Za’atar, spice blends, meat rubs, Italian dishes, soups, salads, egg dishes, meats, and oregano tea.
– Dried oregano can be stored in a clean, airtight container in a cool, dark location for up to a year.
– Dried oregano can be stored as whole leaves, crumbled leaves, or ground into powder.
– Ground oregano has a more intense flavor than crumbled leaves and is suitable for sauces and stews.
– Approximately 1/3 of the amount of dried oregano is equivalent to fresh oregano in recipes because the dried herb has a more concentrated flavor.
– Other herbs can also be dried at home.