How to Dehydrate Peppermint Leaves

Dried peppermint leaves make a useful addition to your spice rack during the winter, when fresh herbs are not readily available. Whether used as a seasoning or steeped in hot water for tea, the fragrant aroma and cool, clean taste of dried peppermint please the senses. Dehydrating peppermint leaves takes longer than other herbs due to the high moisture content in the plant. Using a dehydrator to dry the peppermint works best because you can control the temperature.

Paper towels
Food dehydrator
Airtight glass bottles

Instructions

- 1
  Rinse harvested peppermint leaves with cold water while they are still on the stem. Blot the leaves dry with paper towels.
- 2
  Pluck fresh peppermint leaves from the stems and arrange in a single layer on the perforated tray of your food dehydrator.
- 3
  Place the cover over the dehydrator and rotate to lock it in place.
- 4
  Set the food dehydrator to 100 degrees Fahrenheit and start the appliance to begin drying the leaves. Maintain this temperature, since flavor and vitamins are lost when herbs are dried at higher temperatures.
- 5
  Test the leaves with a fingertip every two hours until they are crisp.
- 6
  Store whole or crushed peppermint leaves in airtight glass containers.

How to Harvest a Division From My Chives

How to Grow Cilantro Hydroponically

Growing Herbs