Today I will show you how to make basil powder at home. It is very easy to make and keeps well in the pantry in an airtight container. This way, you can use it to flavor and decorate your dishes during the winter. So, when the basil is lush in the garden or in a pot on the terrace, let’s take advantage of it.
Other very interesting “powders”:
- Difficulty: Very easy
- Cost: Very cheap
- Cooking methods: Oven, Microwave
- Cuisine: Italian
- Seasonality: Spring, Summer, and Fall
Ingredients for Basil Powder
I did not specify the amount of basil because, obviously, it depends on how much powder you want to prepare.
- basil
Tools
- Paper towels
- Parchment paper
- Jar airtight
Preparation of Basil Powder
Wash the basil leaves under running water, then place them on kitchen paper without overlapping them and pat them several times to dry them well.
When they are perfectly dry, you can proceed in two different ways: in the oven or in the microwave. I used this second method because it’s much faster and cheaper. However, if you don’t have a microwave, you can put the leaves in the oven at 140°F and dry them with the door slightly open (insert the handle of a wooden spoon). The time has to be estimated a bit by feeling the leaves from time to time, but it will certainly take more than an hour.
If using the microwave, transfer the dry leaves onto a sheet of parchment paper (again, do not overlap them), then cover them with a second sheet.
Then place them in the microwave for 3 minutes at 900 W.
After this time, the basil leaves will be very dry.
Then crumble them with your fingers to the desired size: you can decide whether to get a very fine powder or a coarser one. I prefer it a bit coarse because I find it perfect for decorating dishes as well as flavoring them.
Some people have told me to let the basil leaves dry in the sun. Even in this case, they should be kept spaced and placed on parchment paper and turned from time to time. It is definitely the most economical system, but also the longest. If you choose this way, I recommend covering the leaves with a net to prevent insects from getting on them.
Whatever system you choose, once the leaves are crumbled, transfer the basil powder into a previously sterilized glass container. It keeps well in a dry place away from light. Get creative using it to flavor and decorate your dishes. Enjoy! Paola
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