Dill or No Dill? How to Turn Fresh Dill into Dry Like a Pro!

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Why Bother Drying Dill?
• 5 Methods to Convert Fresh Dill to Dry
• How to Store Dried Dill Properly
• Creative Ways to Use Dried Dill
• Buying Guide: Tools & Products for Drying Dill
• Conclusion

Introduction

If you’ve ever found yourself with a bumper crop of fresh dill from your garden (or an overzealous purchase at the farmers’ market), you might be wondering how to preserve that fragrant herb before it wilts and disappears. Lucky for you, drying dill is one of the easiest and most effective ways to keep its flavor locked in for months. In this guide, we’ll show you how to convert fresh dill to dry like a seasoned pro—no fancy kitchen tools required!

Why Bother Drying Dill?

Fresh dill has a vibrant, grassy flavor that’s perfect for pickling, fish dishes, and creamy dips. But it doesn’t last long once harvested. Drying dill allows you to enjoy its unique taste all year round, without having to rush through a bunch before it spoils.

Here’s why drying dill is worth the effort:

• Pantry Powerhouse: Once dried, dill can last up to a year if stored correctly.
• Flavor Retention: While not quite as punchy as fresh, dried dill still brings a lot to the table.
• Space-Saving: A few sprigs take up way less space than a whole bouquet in the fridge.

5 Methods to Convert Fresh Dill to Dry

Whether you’re working with a countertop full of fresh dill or just a handful from the grocery store, here are five reliable methods to turn it into flavorful dried dill:

1. Air-Drying (Classic & Simple)

This is the OG method of drying herbs—and it works beautifully for dill.

1. Rinse and gently pat dry the dill stems.
2. Tie them into small bundles with twine or rubber bands.
3. Hang upside down in a warm, dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
4. Wait 1–2 weeks until completely brittle.

2. Oven-Drying (Fast & Foolproof)

When you need dried dill quickly, the oven can speed things up.

1. Preheat oven to its lowest setting (around 170°F/75°C).
2. Spread cleaned dill sprigs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Bake for 1–2 hours, checking every 30 minutes to prevent burning.

Oven Setting	Time Needed	Result
Low (170°F / 75°C)	1–2 hrs	Crispy, aromatic dill
Medium (200°F / 95°C)	45 mins	May brown slightly

3. Dehydrator Method (Precision Control)

A food dehydrator gives you precise temperature control, ensuring even drying without scorching.

1. Clean and pat dry the dill.
2. Place sprigs in a single layer on dehydrator trays.
3. Set temperature to around 95°F / 35°C and let run for 6–12 hours.

4. Microwave Magic (Speed Hack!)

Yes, you read that right. The microwave can dry dill in minutes—but you have to be careful.

1. Place a few sprigs between two layers of paper towel on a microwave-safe plate.
2. Microwave on high for 30–60 seconds.
3. Check for crispness; repeat in 10-second bursts if needed.

5. Freeze & Crush (A Sneaky Shortcut)

If you don’t mind a bit of texture difference, freezing fresh dill and then crushing it into flakes mimics dried dill when used in cooked dishes.

1. Wash and dry dill thoroughly.
2. Freeze in a sealed bag or container.
3. Once frozen, crush into flakes using your hands or a blender.

How to Store Dried Dill Properly

Once your dill is dry, storing it properly is key to preserving flavor and extending shelf life. Here’s what to do:

• Use Airtight Containers: Glass jars with tight-fitting lids work best.
• Keep It Cool & Dark: Store in a pantry or cabinet away from heat and light.
• Label & Date: Helps you track freshness and avoid confusion.

Creative Ways to Use Dried Dill

You don’t have to limit dried dill to just salads or soups. Try these fun uses:

• Dill Butter: Mix with softened butter for grilled veggies or seafood.
• Pickling Spice Blend: Combine with mustard seeds, peppercorns, and garlic for homemade pickles.
• Homemade Seasoned Salt: Blend with sea salt for a flavorful sprinkle.
• Baked Snacks: Add to breads, crackers, or savory muffins.

Buying Guide: Tools & Products for Drying Dill

If you're serious about drying dill regularly, investing in some quality tools can save time and improve results. Here are our top picks:

1. Countertop Food Dehydrator – Excalibur 2900B

• Features: 9-tray system, adjustable thermostat (95°F–165°F), timer, fan-assisted drying.
• Advantages: Precise temperature control, large capacity, easy to clean.
• Use Cases: Perfect for frequent users or those who dry multiple herbs and fruits.
• Target Audience: Home chefs, gardening enthusiasts, and food preservers.
• Suitable Occasions: Year-round use, especially during harvest season.

2. Herb Drying Rack – OXO Good Grips

• Features: Foldable design, non-slip feet, air-circulating base.
• Advantages: Compact, stylish, and functional for air-drying.
• Use Cases: Ideal for drying small batches indoors.
• Target Audience: Urban gardeners, apartment dwellers, occasional users.
• Suitable Occasions: Spring and summer when fresh herbs are abundant.

3. Silicone Herb Drying Mat – Chef’n Herbie

• Features: Flexible silicone mat with slots for herb placement.
• Advantages: Reusable, odor-resistant, dishwasher safe.
• Use Cases: Great for laying out herbs after washing or for short-term drying.
• Target Audience: Casual cooks and small-space living enthusiasts.
• Suitable Occasions: When quick air-drying is needed before storage.

4. Vacuum Sealer – FoodSaver V4840

• Features: Automatic sealing, vacuum chamber, handheld accessory port.
• Advantages: Extends shelf life by removing air and moisture.
• Use Cases: For sealing dried dill in mylar bags or vacuum pouches.
• Target Audience: Long-term storers, preppers, and bulk buyers.
• Suitable Occasions: Preparing herbs for extended pantry storage.

5. Mason Jars with Lids – Ball Regular Mouth Quart Jars

• Features: Classic glass jars with metal lids, reusable, stackable.
• Advantages: Affordable, transparent (so you can see the contents), airtight when sealed.
• Use Cases: Storing dried herbs, spices, grains, etc.
• Target Audience: Home cooks, canners, and minimalists.
• Suitable Occasions: Everyday storage, gifting herbs, organizing the pantry.

Conclusion

Learning how to convert fresh dill to dry opens up a world of culinary convenience and flavor. Whether you go old-school with air-drying or opt for modern methods like dehydrators and microwaves, you now have all the tools and tips to make the most of your dill stash. So next time you bring home a bundle of fragrant dill, don’t let it wilt—dry it out and savor its taste all year long!