A Guide to Preserving Herbs for the Winter: Flavors That Last All Year

As the winter months approach, the herb gardeners or CSA, or local farms markets of the northeast find themselves faced with the challenge of preserving the vibrant flavors of their beloved herbs. While fresh herbs can be a perfect addition to any dish, their availability moves to importing from south america or other sources as the cold weather sets in. However, with some planning and some simple preservation techniques, you can enjoy the taste of summer throughout the colder seasons. I’ll explore various methods of preserving herbs, ensuring that their aromatic essence remains intact, even when the garden is covered in snow.

1. Drying Herbs: Drying herbs is one of the oldest and simplest methods of preservation. It involves air-drying or using low heat to remove moisture from the herbs, resulting in concentrated flavors and prolonged shelf life. Hang bundles of herbs upside down in a dry, well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight. Alternatively, you can use a dehydrator or oven set at a low temperature. Once dry, store the herbs in airtight containers away from heat and light.

2. Freezing Herbs: Freezing herbs is another excellent way to preserve their freshness. Choose herbs that freeze well, such as basil, parsley, or chives. Wash and dry the herbs thoroughly, then chop or leave them whole before placing them in airtight containers or freezer bags. Freezing herbs maintains their vibrant color and flavor, making them perfect for use in soups, stews, and sauces during the winter months.

3. Herb-infused Oils: Herb-infused oils not only preserve the flavors of your favorite herbs but also provide a versatile ingredient for cooking and dressing. Begin by washing and thoroughly drying the herbs. Place them in a clean jar and cover them with a high-quality oil, such as olive or sunflower oil. Allow the herbs to infuse for a few weeks, ensuring the jar is sealed and kept away from direct sunlight. Strain the oil and transfer it to a sterilized bottle, storing it in a cool, dark place.

4. Herb Butter: Herb butter is a delicious and versatile way to preserve herbs. Start by softening unsalted butter and finely chopping your chosen herbs. Mix the herbs into the butter thoroughly, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Roll the butter into a log shape using parchment paper or plastic wrap and refrigerate or freeze. Herb butter can be sliced and added to dishes, used as a spread, or melted over grilled meats and vegetables for an instant burst of flavor.

5. Herb Salt: Herb salt is a fantastic condiment that adds a punch of flavor to any recipe. Combine fresh herbs with coarse sea salt in a ratio of 1:4 (1 part herbs to 4 parts salt). Finely chop the herbs and mix them with the salt, then spread the mixture on a baking sheet and leave it to dry completely. Once dry, transfer the herb salt to an airtight container and use it to season your dishes throughout the winter season.

   Preserving herbs for the winter not only ensures a supply of fresh flavors but also allows us to savor the essence of our gardens all year round. Whether you choose to dry, freeze, infuse, or blend herbs with other ingredients, the key is to store them properly to maintain their quality. Experiment with different preservation methods and get creative in the kitchen with your preserved herbs. By doing so, you'll be able to elevate your winter meals and enjoy the tastes of summer even in the coldest months.

New England Cowboy Herb Butter

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

• 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped

• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves, chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon dijon mustard

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the softened butter, chopped parsley, chives, thyme, rosemary, minced garlic, dijon, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.

2. Mix all the ingredients together until well combined and the herbs are evenly distributed throughout the butter.

3. Spoon the herb butter onto a sheet of parchment paper or plastic wrap.

4. Roll the butter tightly in the parchment paper or plastic wrap, shaping it into a log.

5. Twist the ends of the parchment paper or plastic wrap to secure the log shape.

6. Place the herb butter log in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until it becomes firm.

7. Once the herb butter is firm, it is ready to use.

8. To use the herb butter, simply slice off a piece and melt it over grilled steak, baked potatoes, corn on the cob, or spread it on freshly baked bread.

Enjoy the rich and flavorful New England Cowboy Herb Butter!

Note: The herb butter can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or in the freezer for up to 3 months.