Gifts from the Herb Garden

Gifts created by the giver hold a special place. May home crafted gifts are very simple to make. If you are a gardener here is one that will make you a hit with your friends.

Herb infused oils:

If you have an herb garden, this is a great gift for your salad loving friends. Light flavor oils or extra virgin olive oil are the most preferred. Sunflower, safflower and canola are my favorites of the lighter oils. Nearly any herb or combination will work.

Dried herbs should only be used. While there are a variety of methods for drying fresh herbs the oven is the old reliable way. Try to do a large batch at one time to be more efficient.

Basil, Rosemary, thyme and sage are commonly grown herbs that work well. Tarragon, savory, dill and oregano are less common in most herb gardens but are perfect for infusing oils.

To dry, place the clean herbs on a ventilate surface. Pie cooling racks are perfect and if you can properly control your oven temperature steamer racks are better. These steamer racks are made out of wood or bamboo most of the time. So make sure you had adequate space between the heating element and the racks. The oven set on low (200 degrees to 225 degrees) with the door cracked open is my method. Drying times vary but three hours is about average if the herbs have had a day or two or air drying first. After drying take the leaves off the sprigs saving a few whole sprigs. If you have a dehydrator you are in great shape, just follow the directions with your dehydrator.

Containers that I prefer are clear glass corked bottled. Most that I used are recycled but they are available at all craft stores and on-line. Smaller bottles that will fit in an inexpensive spice rack are great. Fill the spice rack with a variety of your custom oils and you have a memorable gift.