How do you take fresh rosemary and preserve it?

1. Harvest fresh rosemary sprigs just before flowering, usually in late spring or early summer. Choose healthy stems with vibrant green leaves.

2. Gently rinse the rosemary sprigs under cool water to remove any dirt or debris. Shake them to remove excess water.

3. Pat the rosemary sprigs dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Make sure they're completely dry to prevent mold growth during storage.

4. Place the rosemary sprigs on a drying rack or hang them upside down in a warm, dry, and well-ventilated area. Ensure there's enough space between the sprigs for proper air circulation.

5. Leave the rosemary to dry for 1 to 2 weeks. Check occasionally, and gently shake or turn the sprigs to promote even drying.

6. Once the rosemary is completely dry, the leaves should crumble easily when rubbed between your fingers.

7. Strip the dried rosemary leaves from the stems and discard the woody stems.

8. Store the dried rosemary leaves in airtight containers in a cool, dark, and dry place. Properly dried rosemary can be stored for several months.

Freezing Method:

1. Harvest fresh rosemary sprigs as mentioned above.

2. Rinse the sprigs under cool water and pat them dry with a clean towel.

3. Remove any tough stems or leaves.

4. Place the rosemary sprigs in freezer-safe zip-lock bags or airtight containers.

5. Squeeze out as much air as possible from the bags or containers to prevent freezer burn.

6. Label the bags or containers with the date and store them in the freezer.

Frozen rosemary can be kept for several months. When ready to use, simply remove the desired number of sprigs from the freezer and allow them to thaw at room temperature or use them directly in your cooking.