Step 1

Harvest oregano sprigs - the fresher they are, the longer the dried ones will last. Then remove the leaves from the stems (unless you are air drying the herb - then keep them whole). To remove the leaves, hold the stem near the top and use your fingers or kitchen shears to slide down the stem in the opposite direction of leaf growth. Apply a bit of pressure as your fingers slide down and the leaves will separate from the stem.

Step 2

Rinse the leaves well - this is essential as lots of dust can stay on them. Then use a salad spinner or pat them dry with a kitchen towel or paper towel. It's best to remove as much moisture as possible.Next, choose your drying process.

Step 3

Place the leaves on a dehydrator tray in a single layer and set the temperature to 105ºF/40°C. Allow them to dry for 1-3 hours or until the leaves are dry and brittle. Check them after 1.5 hours. If they feel dry and crumble easily between your fingers, they have dried enough. If not, keep them in for longer, checking regularly (every 20-30 minutes).

Step 4

Spread the leaves in a single layer on a baking sheet/s covered with parchment paper. Place them in the center of the oven for about 1 hour at 165ºF/75ºC (or the lowest temperature setting of your oven). It's best to keep the door propped oven with a wooden spoon to allow air circulation. Check on the leaves after around 30-45 minutes. If they feel dry and crumble easily, they should be done. If not, keep them in the oven for a bit longer, checking them every 5-10 minutes.If your oven can go down to 105ºF/40ºC, the drying time will be 1-3 hours, the same as the dehydrator method above.

Step 5

For this method, I recommend using some paper bags, though they are not necessary. Make a small bundle of oregano sprigs (large amounts are more likely to go moldy) and tie them with twine or a rubber band. Punch a few holes on the sides of the bag and add the bundle inside and seal the bag.

Step 6

Hang the bundle upside down in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight. The air-drying method will take about 1-2 weeks - the leaves are ready when they crumble easily. Also, when using a paper bag, any leaves and seeds that fall off will be caught in the bag.