You could also use sharp scissors to cut the leaves from the stalk, but this is more time consuming.
You can remove insects, but it’s best to discard any leaves that have webbing or possible eggs.
If you use a rubber band, it will tighten as the sage dries. This will prevent you from losing leaves. [8] X Trustworthy Source Penn State Extension Educational organization dedicated to delivering science-based information to people, businesses, and communities Go to source
You can wrap them in muslin instead of a paper bag. However, do not use plastic, as it will cause mold. [10] X Research source Some people choose not to cover the herbs because they like the look of drying herbs, but you will need to watch for dust.
It’s best to dry the sage indoors for better flavor and color. [12] X Trustworthy Source National Center for Home Food Preservation Publicly-funded center dedicated to educating consumers about research-backed safety practices for preserving food Go to source You can also air dry the sage on a paper towel. Lay out each leaf individually and change the paper towels daily. [13] X Trustworthy Source Penn State Extension Educational organization dedicated to delivering science-based information to people, businesses, and communities Go to source Avoid moist areas of your home like the sink, stove, or dishwasher. [14] X Trustworthy Source Penn State Extension Educational organization dedicated to delivering science-based information to people, businesses, and communities Go to source
If you live in a very humid area, it may be better to choose a different drying method, such as a food dehydrator. [16] X Research source
If you use the oven, heat it at 160 degrees Fahrenheit (71 degrees Celsius) for 30 minutes. Make sure that you do not go over this time because you may damage the herbs. If you use the freezer, freeze it for 48 hours. [19] X Trustworthy Source Penn State Extension Educational organization dedicated to delivering science-based information to people, businesses, and communities Go to source You do not need to treat the sage if you use a heat method to dry it.
If you live in an area with high humidity, you may need to set the temperature at 125 degrees Fahrenheit (52 degrees Celsius). [21] X Trustworthy Source National Center for Home Food Preservation Publicly-funded center dedicated to educating consumers about research-backed safety practices for preserving food Go to source
The highest temperature you should use is 180 degrees Fahrenheit (82 degrees Celsius). [27] X Trustworthy Source Penn State Extension Educational organization dedicated to delivering science-based information to people, businesses, and communities Go to source
If you have a gas oven, don’t prop open the oven because it’s dangerous to let the gas fill the kitchen. Instead, open the oven every 5 minutes to allow the air to circulate.
If you suspect that the sage is dry before you reach the 1 hour mark, pull it early. It’s easy to over-dry the herb.
If you are using the sage to form a sage bundle, keep the leaves whole.
If you use a clear jar, place it in the dark to preserve the color of your sage. [34] X Research source
