How to Dry Bay Leaves
Drying bay leaves is a great way to preserve them for future use and it is surprisingly easy. Try one of these three simple methods and have a pantry stocked with homegrown herbs this winter!
Equipment
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- Fresh bay leaves
Instructions
Air Drying
- Lay bay leaves out on a cooling rack or towel-lined baking tray in a single layer. Alternatively, tie them in a small bundle and hang them to dry.
- Place the bay leaves in a dry place out of direct sunlight.
- Check the leaves after a week. When completely dry, they will be brittle and break when bent.
Oven
- Preheat the oven to the lowest setting possible, usually between 150° and 200°F.
- Lay the bay leaves out on a baking tray or cooling rack and set them in the oven. Prop the door open with a wooden spoon to let out excess humidity.
- Dry the bay leaves in the oven for around 30 minutes, then check them frequently. Avoid browning the leaves by keeping them in the oven too long.
Dehydrator
- Place the bay leaves on mesh-lined trays in a single layer.
- Set the dehydrator to 110°F to dry the bay leaves.
- Start checking the leaves after 4 hours and remove them when they are completely dry. Drying in the dehydrator should take 4-8 hours.
Notes
- Before drying, give the leaves a rinse in cool water and pat dry with a clean towel.
- After drying, store the dried bay leaves in a jar or airtight bag.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!