Basil is an annual herb that is used throughout the world as a spice, and not only in fresh form, but also in dried. Yes, yes, even in the dried version, it is very fragrant and healthy. The main thing is to know how to properly use dried basil.
When to collect basil for drying for the winter
In order for dried basil to retain the smell as long as possible, you need to know when it is recommended to be removed for drying. Experienced gardeners sometimes grow two harvests per season. Some plant seedlings in pots right on the windowsill or on the balcony.
Important! Pay attention to the quality of the plant, because not all basil can be dried for the winter.Someone gathers a crop before the flowering of the plant, considering that it is harvested during flowering or immediately after the plant loses its aromas.
And someone thinks quite differently: the leaves are suitable for drying during the flowering period. But, as they say, the taste and color of comrades is not. Everyone chooses for themselves the option that suits him. So try and decide. 
How to prepare
Basil is usually harvested in July and autumn during the formation of the second crop. Before you dry the plant, it is washed, crushed, tear off the leaves, form beams.
Learn how to dry cilantro, sorrel, green onions, carrots, zucchini, squash, parsnip, broccoli, mushrooms, rosehip, hawthorn, pears, cherries, plums, apples, cranberries and cornel for the winter.If you are going to do the harvesting, it is recommended to pluck the plants in the morning. But it is necessary that the sun a little dried dew on them.
At what temperature to dry
This plant contains many essential oils, so when it is dried it is necessary that the thermometer be no more than + 35-45 ° C. At higher temperatures, the essential oils will evaporate, and the plant will retain a faint odor.
Did you know? There are more than 35 varieties of basil. He was “born” in East India, but he became loved all over the world. By the way, in the South Caucasus they devoted a proverb to him: "Whoever basil chews, he lives for a long time."
Ways to dry basil
There are different ways of drying. Everyone chooses for himself the one that suits him best. But whatever method you choose, be sure to wash the basil before drying (because the question often arises whether to do this).
Bundle (bush)
It is dried with a bundle (bush), hanging in a shaded place that is well ventilated. Even an attic or a carport can be suitable for this.
Formed beams (you can tie them with rubber bands or threads) are hung so that they do not touch each other. Dry them for about 14 days. If the leaves break off and fall off, and the branches break when bent, the drying process can be completed.
Leaflets
When choosing leaves to dry them, you should first prepare them: carefully cut them off or tear them off from the branches, lay them on a natural fabric in one layer (gauze or towel will do). Leaves should be protected from dust and wind, but without obstruction to the flow of air. It is also perfect gauze. More dense cover is not necessary, as the leaves wither, become unpleasant and the smell and taste.
In addition, the leaves are dried in the refrigerator, laying them out in one layer on paper towels or special trays. Low temperature contributes to the release of moisture from the leaves, because of what they dry in just a week, without losing any color, or smell, or their usefulness.
Also used for drying the oven. She warmed and put there chopped leaves, putting them on a baking sheet with a thin layer.
The microwave oven will be useful in this matter (do not worry - the aroma and usefulness of the seasoning will be preserved, and time is spent quite a bit). Put the washed and dried leaves in a thin layer on some dish and put in the microwave for about one and a half minutes.
Important! Despite its great utility, basil can not be eaten by everyone. It is not recommended for epileptics, people with blood diseases and disorders of the cardiovascular system.
You will then adjust the time yourself, so for the first time it is better not to leave basil unattended and watch the process.How to store dried basil
Basil, dried with branches, is prepared this way for the winter: dry leaves are picked, the rest is thrown away. Large leaves are slightly crushed, breaking them with your fingers.
Dried greens are stored in a well-closed container, putting it in a dark cool place. The best way - This is a glass jar or bag, but always made of natural fabric.
It is also stored in paper bags or plastic containers. It is important that air is not supplied to the seasoning, otherwise the basil flavor will disappear.
What is added and what is combined
The use of dried basil makes an unusual taste of any dish. Prepare a salad or sauce for your family from it - most likely, your family will like this seasoning, as it will precisely diversify their diet. 
It is wonderfully combined with coriander, tarragon, rosemary, parsley, sage, garlic. It is also served with meat, fish, vegetables, rice, beans. They are seasoned with stew, soups - pea and bean, you can fill tomato juice with this dried plant.
Did you know? In Poland, such seasoning is added not only to meat or fish, but, for example, to cottage cheese or yogurt.Basil, both fresh and dried, is tasty and healthy. Add it to different dishes, combine with other spices, do not be afraid to experiment. And you will definitely succeed! And to learn how to prepare and dry it is not at all difficult, even at home. The main thing is to find out how to do it and follow the recommendations.
