While storing grains and flour in mylar bags with food oxygen absorbers has become common, nothing compares to the taste of fresh herbs straight from your garden. Experienced cooks can discern the difference between garden-fresh herbs and store-bought dried ones. Given the ease of growing herbs at home, many people are turning to herb gardens, appreciating the convenience and delightful aroma they offer.
However, fresh herbs have a limited shelf life, necessitating efficient storage if not used promptly. To extend their freshness and flavor, consider the following tips:
Herb-infused Ice Cubes
Freezing fresh herbs is an excellent way to preserve them, especially if you have an abundance from your garden. Simply fill empty ice cube trays with a mixture of fresh herbs and premium vegetable oil. Once frozen, these herb-infused ice cubes can be added to recipes, imparting a burst of fresh herb flavor.
Herb Oil
Restaurants often use herb-infused oil to enhance the flavor of their dishes. You can replicate this at home with ease. Blanch fresh herbs, let them dry, then blend them with vegetable oil. Strain the mixture and fill bottles using a funnel, labeling each bottle for easy identification. Storing these herb-infused oil bottles in the refrigerator extends their shelf life, ensuring you have flavorful additions for your culinary creations.
Homemade Pesto
Utilize excess herbs by making homemade pesto—a versatile condiment that adds depth to various dishes. Combine basil leaves, peeled garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese in a food processor bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then gradually add olive oil until the mixture emulsifies. Store the homemade pesto in an airtight container for up to six to seven days, ready to elevate your meals with fresh herb goodness.
Whether you're a home cook or an aspiring chef, preserving herbs from your garden opens up a world of culinary possibilities.
Explore more storage techniques using heat sealers, mylar bags, and oxygen absorbers on our Wallaby blog.
