If you’re a fan of cilantro, you know how quickly it can go bad in the fridge. Dehydrating cilantro is a great way to preserve it for later use.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to dehydrate cilantro in a dehydrator.
Why Dehydrate Cilantro?
Before we dive into the process of dehydrating cilantro, let’s talk about why you might want to do it. Dehydrating cilantro extends its shelf life, making it last longer in your pantry. It’s also a great way to preserve the flavor and aroma of the herb, so you can enjoy it in your cooking year-round.
See also: How to Dry Cilantro Naturally
How to Dehydrate Cilantro in a Dehydrator
What You’ll Need
To dehydrate cilantro, you’ll need a few things:
- Fresh cilantro
- A dehydrator
- A colander or strainer
- A bowl of ice water
- A paper towel or clean kitchen towel
How to Prepare Cilantro for Dehydration
To prepare your cilantro for dehydration:
- start by washing it thoroughly. Remove any stems or leaves that are wilted or discolored.
- next, blanch the cilantro in boiling water for 30 seconds, then immediately transfer it to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
- once the cilantro is cooled, use a colander or strainer to remove as much excess water as possible.
- then, use a paper towel or a clean kitchen towel to pat the cilantro dry.
How to Dehydrate Cilantro
Now it’s time to dehydrate your cilantro.
- Start by setting your dehydrator to the lowest temperature setting.
- Spread the cilantro out in a single layer on the dehydrator trays, making sure there’s enough space between the leaves for air to circulate.
- Depending on the moisture content of your cilantro and the temperature of your dehydrator, it can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours to fully dehydrate the herb.
Check the cilantro periodically to ensure it’s drying evenly and not becoming overcooked.
Storing Dehydrated Cilantro
Once your cilantro is fully dehydrated, remove it from the dehydrator and allow it to cool completely. Store the dehydrated cilantro in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Properly stored, dehydrated cilantro can last for up to a year.
Read also about how to properly store dried herbs.
How to Use Dehydrated Cilantro
Dehydrated cilantro can be used in many of the same ways as fresh cilantro. It’s a great addition to spice rubs, marinades, and dry mixes. To rehydrate the cilantro, simply soak it in warm water for a few minutes before using it.
Tips and Tricks
- Make sure your cilantro is completely dry before putting it in the dehydrator. Excess moisture can cause the herb to spoil or become moldy.
- Don’t overcrowd the dehydrator trays. Leave enough space between the leaves for air to circulate.
- To speed up the drying process, you can use a fan to circulate air around the dehydrator.
Conclusion
Dehydrating cilantro is an easy and effective way to preserve this flavorful herb for later use. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy the taste and aroma of cilantro in your cooking year-round.
