How to Dry Dill Without a Dehydrator

eHow may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Learn more about our affiliate and product review process here.

Things You'll Need

  • Paper towels

  • String

  • Paper bag

  • Baking sheet

Dry fresh dill to use in a variety of dishes.

There is more than one method to dry dill if you don't have a dehydrator. Oven and outside drying both work well. Dry fresh dill straight from your garden to have dill on hand at all times for use in a variety of dishes. Harvest the dill heads when the flower buds form but before the buds open. When winter comes, your dried dill is a reminder of what's to come fresh from the garden next summer.

Advertisement

Dry Outside

Step 1

Wash the dill leaves, flowers or seeds under cool water. Drain thoroughly on top of a paper towel.

Video of the Day

Step 2

Bunch the flower heads and sprigs together.

Step 3

Tie a piece of string tightly around the end of the stems. Lower the bunch upside down into a paper bag to protect it from dust. Tie the top of the paper bag shut with another piece of string.

Step 4

Tie the free end of the string to a nail, piece of wood or hanging spots suspended above the ground outdoors in a covered, airy spot in the shade.

Advertisement

Step 5

Allow to dry for about 3 to 4 days or until the dill feels crisp.

Oven Drying

Step 1

Wash the dill leaves, flowers or seeds under cool water. Drain thoroughly on top of a paper towel.

Advertisement

Step 2

Preheat the oven to 110 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 3

Spread the dill flowers and leaves evenly on a baking sheet.

Step 4

Place the baking sheet in the oven with the door slightly ajar.

Step 5

Allow the dill to dry for about 6 to 8 hours, or until it feels crisp.

Tip

To store dried dill, crumble into small pieces by hand and place in an airtight container such as a metal tin or plastic bag. Use a vacuum sealed bag to keep the dill fresher longer.

Store dried dill in a dark, cool, dry place. Use within about 1 year.

Direct a fan, set on low, into the oven to increase airflow.

If drying dill seeds, place in an oven preheated to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Dry for about 4 to 6 hours.

Sprinkle dill flowers over potatoes, fish, coleslaw and prepared vegetables. Stir into salad dressing.

Cut the herbs for drying just before they flower when the leaves have the most oil.

Video of the Day

Advertisement

references