Lemon thyme is a total garden MVP. Not only does it help keep pests away from your flower beds, but it’s also a superstar in the kitchen. Drying it is one of the best ways to keep that bright, citrusy flavor on hand for all your favorite recipes.
Three Ways to Dry Lemon Thyme
If you’re a home cook, there’s nothing better than having a stash of homegrown herbs ready to go—especially in the winter when your semi-hardy plants are just trying to survive the frost. The great thing about lemon thyme is that, unlike many other herbs, it actually holds onto its incredible flavor after drying. You’ve got a few different options for getting the job done:
- Air drying
- Oven drying
- Using a dehydrator
Air Drying
Air drying is definitely the most budget-friendly way to preserve your harvest. Once you’ve clipped your sprigs, skip the water—washing them can lead to mold. Just shake off any dirt and pick out any dead leaves. Bundle the stems together at the base with some twine and hang these little “bouquets” in a dry spot with plenty of airflow.
Keep an eye on them; as the moisture evaporates, the stems will shrink, so you might need to tighten the string every now and then. You’ll know they’re ready when the leaves feel brittle and make a rustling sound when touched—usually after about two weeks. Pro tip: Leave the leaves on the stems until you’re ready to use them to keep the aroma as fresh as possible!
Oven Drying
If you don’t want to wait weeks, the oven method is much faster and takes just a few hours. Spread your cuttings out on a baking sheet, making sure they have plenty of “elbow room”—don’t stack them on top of each other. Cover the herbs with a piece of parchment paper and slide them in.
Set your oven to the convection setting (if you have it) at a low temperature between 95°F and 120°F (35-50°C). It usually takes about four to six hours to finish. Keep the oven door cracked open slightly to let moisture escape, and give the stems a turn every hour or two.
Using a Dehydrator
A food dehydrator makes the whole process even easier. These gadgets usually have multiple trays and use a fan to circulate warm air perfectly. Just like with the oven method, lay the sprigs out so they aren’t touching. Set the temperature to the same low range as the oven, and let the machine do the work for you!
