Things You’ll Need
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Paper towels
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String
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Paper bag
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Baking sheet
Dry fresh dill to use in a variety of dishes.
There is more than one method to dry dill if you don't have a dehydrator. Oven and outside drying both work well. Dry fresh dill straight from your garden to have dill on hand at all times for use in a variety of dishes. Harvest the dill heads when the flower buds form but before the buds open. When winter comes, your dried dill is a reminder of what's to come fresh from the garden next summer.
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Dry Outside
Step 1
Wash the dill leaves, flowers or seeds under cool water. Drain thoroughly on top of a paper towel.
Step 2
Bunch the flower heads and sprigs together.
Step 3
Tie a piece of string tightly around the end of the stems. Lower the bunch upside down into a paper bag to protect it from dust. Tie the top of the paper bag shut with another piece of string.
Step 4
Tie the free end of the string to a nail, piece of wood or hanging spots suspended above the ground outdoors in a covered, airy spot in the shade.
Step 5
Allow to dry for about 3 to 4 days or until the dill feels crisp.
Oven Drying
Step 1
Wash the dill leaves, flowers or seeds under cool water. Drain thoroughly on top of a paper towel.
Step 2
Preheat the oven to 110 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 3
Spread the dill flowers and leaves evenly on a baking sheet.
Step 4
Place the baking sheet in the oven with the door slightly ajar.
Step 5
Allow the dill to dry for about 6 to 8 hours, or until it feels crisp.
Tip
To store dried dill, crumble into small pieces by hand and place in an airtight container such as a metal tin or plastic bag. Use a vacuum sealed bag to keep the dill fresher longer.
Store dried dill in a dark, cool, dry place. Use within about 1 year.
Direct a fan, set on low, into the oven to increase airflow.
If drying dill seeds, place in an oven preheated to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Dry for about 4 to 6 hours.
Sprinkle dill flowers over potatoes, fish, coleslaw and prepared vegetables. Stir into salad dressing.
Cut the herbs for drying just before they flower when the leaves have the most oil.
