🌱Seed 🙂Agree 📊Project
Importance: 40%
The Big Idea
Various notes on making and blending Tea. The goal is to one day have many things grown fro A Tea Garden.
Similar Notes: Plant Care Plants Around Church
Pages about Making Tea
growing-and-brewing-your-own-tea
Ingredients
Herbal Teas
- Mints
- Cinnamon
- Dried Orange peel
- Clove
- Red Pepper flakes
- Ginger
- Nutmeg
- Hibiscus
- Dried Apple
- Strawberry Juice
- Fennel
- Cardamom
- Star Anise
- Turmeric
Drying Orange Peel
Peel and remove as much white inner pulp as possible. Precut into strips. At 200 degrees dry for 20 minutes or until peels slightly curl. Store in airtight container.
Properly Drying Freshly Picked Mint
Mint, with its refreshing aroma and versatile applications, is a beloved herb for culinary enthusiasts and home gardeners alike. Drying freshly picked mint at home is a rewarding process that allows for the preservation of its distinct flavor and aroma, ensuring a readily available supply for teas, seasonings, and various other uses throughout the year. Mastering the proper drying techniques is essential to retain the herb’s valuable essential oils and prevent spoilage.
Harvesting Mint for Optimal Flavor and Drying
The timing of the mint harvest significantly impacts the flavor and the success of the drying process. It is generally recommended to harvest mint in the late spring or early summer, just before the plant begins to flower.1 This period is when the concentration of essential oils within the leaves is at its peak, resulting in the most flavorful dried product.1 Harvesting before flowering also encourages the plant to produce more leaves, leading to bushier growth and potentially multiple harvests throughout the season.4 While mint can be harvested throughout the growing season, the flavor intensity may diminish once the plant has flowered.1 It is advisable to avoid harvesting mint after the first frost in autumn, as the quality may be compromised.2
The ideal time of day for harvesting mint for drying is in the mid-morning, after the morning dew has evaporated but before the full heat of the day sets in.1 Harvesting at this time ensures that the leaves are dry, which is crucial for the drying process, and that the essential oils, which are most potent in the morning, are preserved.1 Gentle handling of the mint during harvest is important to prevent bruising, which can negatively affect the herb’s quality and potentially lead to spoilage.8
When harvesting, it is best to use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears for a clean cut.1 Cut the stems a few inches above a leaf node or a pair of leaves, leaving at least 4 to 6 inches of stem on the plant to encourage regrowth.1 It is not recommended to simply pluck individual leaves, as this method can stress and weaken the mint plant over time.4 To ensure the plant’s continued health and productivity, it is best practice to harvest no more than one-third to one-half of the plant at any one time, allowing it sufficient time to recover before the next harvest.6
Preparing Fresh Mint for Drying: The Essential First Steps
Once the mint has been harvested, proper preparation is key to successful drying. The first step involves gently rinsing the harvested mint under cool, running water.1 This process removes any dirt, dust particles, or insects that may be present on the leaves. It is important to avoid using hot water for rinsing, as it can cause the delicate mint leaves to wilt, potentially affecting their flavor and texture.15 If the mint has been organically grown and appears clean, some experts suggest that a gentle shake to remove any loose debris might suffice instead of a full wash.8
After washing, it is crucial to thoroughly dry the mint to remove any excess moisture before proceeding with the chosen drying method.1 Excess water can hinder the drying process and increase the risk of mold growth. A salad spinner can be an effective tool for removing a significant amount of water from the rinsed mint leaves.1 Following the salad spinner, or as an alternative, the mint can be gently patted dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel.1 For optimal results, it is often recommended to lay the mint out in a single layer on paper towels or a clean surface and allow it to air dry for an additional hour or two. This extra step ensures that the mint is as dry as possible before the main drying process begins.11
The decision to remove the stems from the mint leaves depends largely on the chosen drying method. For air drying using the hanging method, the stems are typically left intact as they are used to tie the bunches together.1 However, for oven drying, dehydrator drying, and microwave drying, it is generally recommended to remove the leaves from the stems.1 Removing the leaves promotes more even and faster drying, as the stems often retain more moisture. If desired, the stems can be dried separately in a dehydrator, as they may require a longer drying time.12 During the process of removing the leaves, it is a good opportunity to inspect them for any signs of damage, bruising, or disease, and to discard any imperfect leaves to ensure only the highest quality mint is dried.1 Thoroughly removing surface moisture is a critical step in preventing mold growth and ensuring the mint dries effectively. The choice of whether to remove stems prior to drying is influenced by the drying technique selected and the user’s preference for the final form of the dried herb.
Detailed Methods for Drying Fresh Mint
There are several effective methods for drying fresh mint, each with its own advantages and considerations. The choice of method often depends on factors such as the quantity of mint, available time, and the desired quality of the final product.
A. Air Drying: The Traditional Approach
Air drying is a time-honored method that is particularly well-suited for mint and is often considered the best way to preserve its delicate aroma, especially when the goal is to use the dried mint for teas.1 This method involves allowing the natural air circulation to gradually remove moisture from the herb.
One common technique for air drying mint is to bundle and hang the stems.1 To do this, gather small bunches of mint stems, typically around 5 to 10 stems per bunch, depending on their thickness.1 Tie the stems together tightly at the bottom using kitchen twine, string, or rubber bands.1 Rubber bands are often preferred as they will naturally tighten as the stems dry and shrink, preventing the bunch from falling apart.1 Hang these bunches upside down in a warm, dark, and well-ventilated area where they will not be exposed to direct sunlight.4 Good air circulation is crucial to prevent the growth of mold and ensure even drying.1 A temperature of at least 68°F (20°C) is generally recommended for effective air drying.12 To protect the hanging mint from dust and to catch any leaves that may fall off during the drying process, the bunches can be placed inside paper bags with holes punched in them for ventilation.1 Allow approximately 1 to 2 weeks for the mint to dry completely using this method.4 Once the mint is fully dried, the leaves can be easily stripped from the stems.1
Another approach to air drying mint involves laying the individual leaves flat.1 In this method, the leaves are removed from the stems and spread out in a single layer on a clean, dry surface such as paper towels, cheesecloth, or a mesh drying screen.1 It is important to ensure that the leaves do not overlap, as this can trap moisture and lead to uneven drying or mold growth.12 The leaves should be placed in a warm, dark, and well-ventilated area.12 To ensure even drying, it is advisable to gently turn the leaves over every day or so to expose all sides to the air.27 The drying time for this method can vary depending on the humidity and temperature of the environment but typically ranges from a few days to a week. Air drying is a gentle process that helps to retain the delicate essential oils responsible for mint’s intense aroma, making it a preferred method for those who value the herb’s flavor and fragrance.
B. Oven Drying: A Quicker Method with Considerations
Oven drying offers a faster alternative to air drying, but it requires careful attention to temperature to avoid compromising the mint’s flavor, aroma, and color.1 Due to the potential for flavor loss at higher temperatures, it is crucial to use the lowest possible heat setting on the oven.
Before oven drying, it is recommended to remove the mint leaves from the stems.5 Spread the leaves in a single layer on a baking sheet that has been lined with parchment paper.5 Set the oven to its lowest possible temperature, ideally between 110°F and 180°F (43°C to 82°C).1 Some suggest preheating the oven to a very low temperature, such as 140°F or even as low as 50°C, for a short period and then turning it off, allowing the residual heat to dry the leaves.5 It is important to avoid temperatures above 200°F (95°C), as these can significantly diminish the essential oils and flavor of the mint.8 To help moisture escape, prop the oven door slightly ajar during the drying process.1 The drying time in the oven can range from approximately 20 minutes to 4 hours, depending on the oven temperature and the moisture content of the leaves.1 It is essential to check the leaves frequently, about every 15 to 30 minutes, to prevent them from burning.1 Turning the leaves over after about 30 minutes can help ensure more even drying.28 The mint leaves are ready when they are dry to the touch and crisp but still retain a green color.5 Allow the leaves to cool completely in the oven before removing them.27 Oven drying, while quicker, demands careful monitoring and precise temperature control to preserve the quality of the dried mint.
C. Dehydrator Drying: Consistent and Efficient
Using a food dehydrator is an excellent method for drying mint as it offers consistent heat and controlled airflow, which helps to dry the herbs evenly and efficiently while minimizing the loss of flavor and aroma.1 Dehydrators are specifically designed for this purpose and provide a more controlled environment compared to oven drying.
For dehydrator drying, it is recommended to remove the mint leaves from the stems.12 Arrange the leaves in a single layer on the dehydrator trays, making sure they do not overlap to allow for proper air circulation around each leaf.1 Set the dehydrator to a low temperature, typically between 95°F and 115°F (35°C to 46°C).1 The drying time in a dehydrator can vary significantly, ranging from 2 to 12 hours, depending on the specific dehydrator model, the humidity in the environment, and the amount of mint being dried.7 It is advisable to check the leaves periodically, perhaps every 1 to 2 hours, to monitor their dryness.5 Rotating the dehydrator trays during the drying process can help to ensure that all the leaves dry evenly.18 The mint is ready when the leaves feel brittle and easily crumble when touched.12 Once dried, allow the mint to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container for storage.12 For those using a dehydrator with a fan, it may be helpful to place a mesh liner on top of the leaves to prevent them from being blown around during the drying cycle.18 Dehydrator drying offers a consistent and efficient way to dry mint while effectively preserving its quality.
D. Microwave Drying: A Very Quick Method with High Risk
Microwave drying is the quickest method for drying mint, making it suitable for small quantities when time is of the essence.1 However, it is also the method that carries the highest risk of burning the leaves and potentially diminishing their flavor if not executed with extreme care.
Before microwave drying, remove the mint leaves from the stems.1 Place a single layer of leaves between two microwave-safe paper towels on a microwave-safe plate.1 Microwave on high power for an initial 1 minute, then continue to microwave in very short intervals of 10 to 30 seconds, checking the leaves frequently after each interval.1 It is crucial to monitor the leaves very closely during this process, as they can burn very easily and quickly in a microwave.1 The mint leaves are ready when they feel completely dry and brittle to the touch.28 Allow the dried leaves to cool completely before storing them.1 Due to the high risk of burning and potential flavor loss, microwave drying should be approached with caution and is generally recommended only for small batches when other methods are not feasible.
Knowing When Your Mint is Perfectly Dried
Regardless of the drying method used, it is essential to ensure that the mint is completely dry before storing it to prevent mold growth. The most reliable indicator of properly dried mint is its texture.7 The leaves should be brittle and easily crumble when touched or gently rubbed between your fingers.7 If you have air-dried the mint with stems attached, the stems themselves should also be brittle and snap or break easily when bent, indicating that there is no residual moisture within them.5 If the leaves are still pliable or feel soft to the touch, this indicates that they still contain moisture and require more drying time.7 Complete dryness is paramount to prevent the development of mold during storage, which can ruin the dried herbs and make them unusable.8 The “crumble test” is a simple yet effective way to determine if the mint has been dried sufficiently. Any hint of flexibility or remaining softness suggests the presence of moisture, and the drying process should be continued.
Storing Your Dried Mint to Preserve Flavor and Aroma
Proper storage of dried mint is just as critical as the drying process itself in maintaining its flavor and aroma over time. The goal of storage is to protect the dried herb from moisture, air, light, and heat, all of which can degrade its quality.
Choosing the right containers is essential for effective storage. It is recommended to store dried mint in airtight containers to shield it from environmental factors.8 Suitable options include glass jars with tight-fitting lids, metal tins, or containers made from BPA-free plastic.8 It is best to avoid using porous containers such as paper or cardboard, as these materials can absorb the mint’s aromatic oils, leading to a loss of flavor.8 For added protection against light, consider using dark-colored glass jars.40 Some individuals find that placing a piece of wax paper under the lid of the jar can create a better seal, further helping to preserve the freshness of the dried mint.16
Optimal storage conditions involve keeping the dried mint in a cool, dry, and dark place, away from direct sunlight and sources of heat.8 Avoid storing dried herbs near heat-generating appliances like stoves or in humid environments such as bathrooms, as these conditions can promote moisture absorption and degrade the herb’s quality.8 A cupboard or pantry that is away from both heat and light is generally an ideal storage location.11
To maximize the flavor retention of dried mint, it is recommended to store the leaves whole and crumble them just before use.11 This practice helps to preserve the essential oils within the leaves until they are needed. If desired, dried mint can be easily crumbled by hand or using a mortar and pestle.11
Dried herbs like mint typically have a shelf life of about 3 months when stored in cupboards and can last up to a year if stored in a refrigerator or freezer.15 To keep track of the storage time, it is a good practice to label each container with the name of the herb and the date it was dried or purchased.18 Regularly check the stored mint for any signs of moisture or mold. If any are detected, the mint should be re-dried to prevent further spoilage.11 Proper storage is crucial for extending the shelf life and preserving the flavor and aroma of your home-dried mint.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Drying Mint
Successfully drying mint requires attention to detail at each stage of the process. Several common mistakes can hinder the drying or storage process, leading to a less than optimal final product.
One common error is harvesting the mint at the wrong time.8 Picking mint too late, after the plant has begun to flower, can result in leaves that have a bitter taste.1 Conversely, harvesting too early in the day when dew is still present on the leaves can impede the drying process.1
Another frequent mistake is not drying the mint thoroughly enough before beginning the main drying process.11 Excess moisture on the leaves can significantly increase the risk of mold growth during drying.8
Overcrowding the mint during the drying process is another common pitfall.10 Whether hanging bunches or laying leaves flat, not allowing enough space between them restricts airflow, which can lead to uneven drying and the potential for mold development.10
Drying mint in direct sunlight is also a mistake to avoid.8 Direct sunlight can degrade the quality, flavor, and color of the herbs, diminishing their potency and appeal.8
When using heat methods like oven drying or a dehydrator, using temperatures that are too high is a common error.1 Excessive heat can cause the loss of essential oils, which are responsible for the mint’s characteristic flavor and aroma.1
Under-drying the mint is a significant mistake that can lead to spoilage during storage.7 Storing herbs that are not completely dry will almost certainly result in mold growth, rendering them unusable.8
Finally, improper storage after the mint has been successfully dried can also degrade its quality.8 Storing dried mint in non-airtight containers or in environments with high heat, light, or moisture will cause it to lose its flavor and aroma more quickly.8 Avoiding these common mistakes is crucial for ensuring a successful mint-drying endeavor and preserving the herb’s valuable qualities.
Table: Comparison of Mint Drying Methods
| Method | Pros | Cons | Recommended Temperature(s) | Approximate Drying Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Air Drying | Gentle, best for preserving aroma | Can take longer, requires low humidity and good ventilation | Warm, dark, well-ventilated (at least 68°F/20°C) | 1-2 weeks |
| Oven Drying | Faster than air drying | Risk of flavor and color loss if not careful, requires monitoring | Lowest setting (110-180°F/43-82°C or residual heat) | 20 mins - 4 hours |
| Dehydrator | Consistent results, good control over temperature and airflow | Requires a dehydrator | 95-115°F (35-46°C) | 2-12 hours |
| Microwave | Very fast for small quantities | High risk of burning and flavor loss, requires close monitoring | High (in short intervals) | 1-3 minutes total |
Works cited
- Let’s Preserve: Drying Herbs - Penn State Extension, accessed May 2, 2025, https://extension.psu.edu/lets-preserve-drying-herbs
- plantura.garden, accessed May 2, 2025, https://plantura.garden/uk/herbs/mint/drying-mint#:~:text=In%20theory%2C%20you%20can%20harvest,so%20before%20the%20first%20frost.
- Harvesting mint: when & how to cut mint plants - Plantura Magazin, accessed May 2, 2025, https://plantura.garden/uk/herbs/mint/how-to-harvest-mint
- How to Harvest Mint - Prune, Dry, Enjoy Your Mint - Getty Stewart, accessed May 2, 2025, https://www.gettystewart.com/how-to-harvest-mint-prune-dry-enjoy-your-mint/
- Drying & preserving mint leaves: useful tips - Plantura, accessed May 2, 2025, https://plantura.garden/uk/herbs/mint/drying-mint
- How to Harvest Mint, Dry Mint, and Store Mint, accessed May 2, 2025, https://www.bhg.com/how-to-harvest-mint-8627966
- How to Harvest & Dry Your Own Herbs - The Little Green Shoot, accessed May 2, 2025, https://thelittlegreenshoot.com/how-to-harvest-dry-your-own-herbs/
- How to Dry Basil and Other Herbs - Bootstrap Farmer, accessed May 2, 2025, https://www.bootstrapfarmer.com/blogs/backyard-gardening/how-to-dry-basil-and-other-herbs
- Our Tips for Drying Garden Herbs | Pinder’s Nursery | Blog, accessed May 2, 2025, https://pindersnursery.com/our-tips-for-drying-garden-herbs/
- 10 Best Herb Drying Racks for Preserving Flavors That Beginners …, accessed May 2, 2025, https://www.farmstandapp.com/7494/best-herb-drying-racks-for-preserving-flavors/
- How to Dry Herbs - Allrecipes, accessed May 2, 2025, https://www.allrecipes.com/article/how-to-dry-herbs/
- How to Dry Mint: 5 Easy Methods (Plus Storage Tips) - wikiHow, accessed May 2, 2025, https://www.wikihow.com/Dry-Mint
- How to Dry Your Own Herbs | Texas Heritage for Living, accessed May 2, 2025, https://blog.txfb-ins.com/texas-living/how-to-dry-herbs/
- How to harvest and dry herbs – The Official Website of Jamie Foley, accessed May 2, 2025, https://jamiefoley.com/how-to-harvest-and-dry-herbs/
- How to Dry Mint Leaves: 3 Ways to Dry Mint Leaves … - MasterClass, accessed May 2, 2025, https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-dry-mint-leaves
- How to dry and store Mint Drying Herbs Retro Aprons, accessed May 2, 2025, https://www.stitchthrutime.com/How_To_Dry_Mint.html
- www.onehundreddollarsamonth.com, accessed May 2, 2025, https://www.onehundreddollarsamonth.com/drying-mint-leaves-in-a-dehydrator/#:~:text=First%2C%20gently%20rinse%20your%20mint,dehydrate%20for%20about%204%20hours.
- The Ultimate Guide to Drying Mint in a Dehydrator - Getty Stewart, accessed May 2, 2025, https://www.gettystewart.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-drying-mint-in-a-dehydrator/
- slowlivingkitchen.com, accessed May 2, 2025, https://slowlivingkitchen.com/how-to-dry-mint/#:~:text=Pick%20individual%20stems%20with%20four,the%20sun%20or%20heat%20source.
- How to dry fresh mint leaves at home! - YouTube, accessed May 2, 2025, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QRaTRMBvojA&pp=0gcJCfcAhR29_xXO
- How To Clean Mint Leaves - YouTube, accessed May 2, 2025, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9KDHeyuENX4
- The Ultimate Guide to Drying Herbs: Perfecting Your Dried Herbs - Mars Hydro, accessed May 2, 2025, https://www.mars-hydro.com/info/post/the-ultimate-guide-to-drying-herbs-perfecting-your-dried-herbs
- How to Grow and Dry Mint - The Spruce Eats, accessed May 2, 2025, https://www.thespruceeats.com/make-your-own-dried-mint-1706225
- Drying Mint Leaves In A Dehydrator - One Hundred Dollars a Month, accessed May 2, 2025, https://www.onehundreddollarsamonth.com/drying-mint-leaves-in-a-dehydrator/
- How To Dry Mint (3 Methods for Dried Mint) - Alphafoodie, accessed May 2, 2025, https://www.alphafoodie.com/how-to-dry-mint/
- How to Dry Mint - Slow Living Kitchen, accessed May 2, 2025, https://slowlivingkitchen.com/how-to-dry-mint/
- How to Dry Herbs - Roots and Refuge, accessed May 2, 2025, https://rootsandrefuge.com/how-to-dry-herbs/
- Drying and Storing Herbs (Updated 1/14/2021) | Aerogarden Addicts, accessed May 2, 2025, https://aerogardenaddicts.com/thread/19/drying-storing-herbs-updated-2021
- How to dry mint - Maureen Abood, accessed May 2, 2025, https://maureenabood.com/technique-how-to-dry-mint/
- Preserving herbs by freezing or drying | UMN Extension, accessed May 2, 2025, https://extension.umn.edu/preserving-and-preparing/preserving-herbs-freezing-or-drying
- How to Dry Herbs and Flowers for Cooking, Infusions, Tinctures and …, accessed May 2, 2025, https://www.modernhippiehw.com/blog/how-to-dry-herbs-and-flowers
- www.masterclass.com, accessed May 2, 2025, https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-dry-mint-leaves#:~:text=Air%20drying%20method%3A%20The%20air,place%20away%20from%20direct%20sunlight.
- How to Harvest, Dry, & Store Herbs From the Garden, accessed May 2, 2025, https://blog.mountainroseherbs.com/drying-herbs
- Drying out herbs : r/vegetablegardening - Reddit, accessed May 2, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/vegetablegardening/comments/1ezcfo2/drying_out_herbs/
- extension.psu.edu, accessed May 2, 2025, https://extension.psu.edu/lets-preserve-drying-herbs#:~:text=The%20flavor%20of%20herbs%20comes,dehydrator%20drying%2C%20and%20microwave%20drying.
- The Easiest Way to Dry and Store Herbs from the Garden • Gardenary, accessed May 2, 2025, https://www.gardenary.com/blog/my-favorite-way-to-dry-and-store-herbs-from-the-garden
- How To Dry Mint in The Oven - Oven Drying Herbs - YouTube, accessed May 2, 2025, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a8nPOhTzvds&pp=0gcJCdgAo7VqN5tD
- www.gardenary.com, accessed May 2, 2025, https://www.gardenary.com/blog/my-favorite-way-to-dry-and-store-herbs-from-the-garden#:~:text=You’ll%20know%20your%20herbs,moisture%20left%20in%20the%20herb.
- extension.umn.edu, accessed May 2, 2025, https://extension.umn.edu/preserving-and-preparing/preserving-herbs-freezing-or-drying#:~:text=Store%20in%20airtight%20containers,-Place%20them%20in&text=Glass%20keeps%20aromas%20in.,year%20in%20refrigerators%20or%20freezers.
- 6 Tips for Storing Dried Herbs – Herbal Academy, accessed May 2, 2025, https://theherbalacademy.com/blog/6-tips-for-storing-dried-herbs/