All About Dill: Harvesting, Drying, and Storing
Dill is a versatile herb that adds a unique flavor to a variety of dishes, from pickles to fish to sauces. It’s easy to grow and can be preserved by drying or freezing, making it a great herb to have on hand year-round.
Harvesting Dill
The best time to harvest dill is just before it begins to flower. This is when the flavor is at its peak. To harvest dill, simply cut the stems with sharp scissors or pruners. You can harvest just the leafy foliage or the entire stem, depending on how you plan to use it.
Drying Dill
There are two ways to dry dill: air-drying and oven-drying.
Air-drying:
- Tie the dill stems together in small bunches.
- Hang the bunches upside down in a warm, dry place with good air circulation.
- Cover the bunches with paper bags that have been punched with holes to allow air to circulate.
- The dill will be dry in 1-2 weeks.
Oven-drying:
- Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Spread the dill leaves in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 1-2 hours, or until the leaves are dry and crumbly.
Drying Dill Seeds
Dill seeds can also be dried for later use. To dry dill seeds:
- Allow the dill heads to mature and turn brown.
- Cut the heads off the stems and place them in a paper bag.
- Crush the heads to release the seeds.
- Spread the seeds on a baking sheet and dry them in the oven at 200 degrees Fahrenheit for 1-2 hours, or until they are dry and hard.
Storing Dill Weed
Dried dill weed should be stored in a cool, dark place in an airtight container. It will keep for 4-6 months.
How to Use Dried Dill Weed
Dried dill weed can be used in a variety of dishes, just like fresh dill. It has a slightly more concentrated flavor than fresh dill, so you may want to use less of it.
Here are some ideas for using dried dill weed:
- Add it to soups, stews, and sauces.
- Sprinkle it on grilled or roasted vegetables.
- Use it to make dill pickles.
- Add it to egg dishes, such as omelets and frittatas.
- Mix it with other herbs to create your own custom spice blends.
Additional Tips
- When harvesting dill, be sure to remove any yellowed or damaged leaves.
- If you are drying dill in the oven, be sure to watch it closely so that it doesn’t burn.
- Dried dill weed can be used as a substitute for fresh dill in any recipe.
- Dill is a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as iron and calcium.
