Easy steps on How To Dry Epazote Herbs. Moons ago, frustrated with not knowing how to maximize the use of epazote leaves before it went to waste I decided dry it. The results was great, no waste, still flavorful, and on deck for months without having to repurchase.
What Does Epazote Taste Like?
The flavor of epazote is an acquired taste for some. For others, it’s a new pungent flavor they totally dig with earthy-tasty depth. Some even say it tastes medicinal, and that would be because it is!
If I had to compare the flavor of Epazote, I’d say its taste reminds me of holy basil, yet dry like oregano. What does it tastes like to you? Share with me in the comment section below!
I was introduced to hierba de epazote by my grandfather as a kid and I’ve been putting it down ever since – I love this herb. My favorite way to eat it is fresh in a fried quesadilla, stuffed with my Mexican Vegetables recipe or mole. Another is with warm tortillas and fresh made Salsa Verde or Salsa Ranchera.
What You’ll Need For Dried Epazote
- 1 bunch fresh epazote (about 10-12 leafy stems)
- 1 small cooling rack / sheet pan / kitchen towel or cardboard [various options for your ease + convenience]
- Jar with lid for storage
- Kitchen scissors [optional to cut]
Where To Buy Epazote
Epazote is sold fresh by the bunch at local grocery / market. However, it’s not available everywhere.
Harvesting your own is great for this reason but it’s also sold dried online if you’d like to try it and don’t have access to fresh.
Instructions
Tip: Pick low-traffic area of your kitchen so that epazote can be left alone to air dry for 3 to 5 days.
A printer-friendly How-to card with instructions is available at the bottom of this post.
Uses of Dried Epazote In Foods
Add this herb to salsa verde, delicious pots of beans, enchilada sauce, grilled veggies, sauced veggies, dry rub ingredient, and in melty cheese quesadillas.
Pro Tip! The flavor of Epazote is strong. I like to stick to 1 leaf per quesadilla or 1:1 stem/leaf ratio, for every 2 cups salsa. The longer you cook it from fresh, the stronger the flavor.
Notes / How To FAQs:
Drying rack: If none available to use for multiple days I recommend using a small piece of cardboard. Place it under the napkin and epazote as a tray.
Storage: If stored in a bag, dried epazote will crush and flake. If stored in a jar, carefully place pieces in a spice jar and cover with a lid. Store it in a spice cabinet or refrigerator for freshness and preservation of color.
Disclaimer: I am not a doctor and do not give medical advice.
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Epazote Herb (How To Dry It)
DESCRIPTION
Equipment
- Knife
- Napkin (cloth or paper)
- Small drying rack
Ingredients
- 1 bunch Epazote
Instructions
- Wash well from stems and gently rinse any dirt and debris from leaves. Drain from all water (I usually let it sit on the dish rack for about 20 minutes or more).
- Trim off dead ends (half an inch) and cut into desired sizes.
- Lay stems and leaves flat on a napkin spread out. Allow to air dry until completely well-dried + toasty.
- Place dried epazote in a jar with a lid.
Equipment
- Jar with lid
- Kitchen Towels
- Kitchen scissors [optional]
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Hola/Aloha,
I live in Hawaii and am going to buy some epazote seeds. I have been wanting to try it for a long time.
Thank you for inspiring me!
Hola Jill! Thanks for your comment. Let me know how it goes, love that you’re going to give it a try!