If you have an excess of fresh rosemary, there are several things you can do to make the most of it. Here are a few suggestions:
Dry the rosemary: Hang the rosemary sprigs upside down in a dry and well-ventilated area until they become completely dry. Once dry, remove the leaves from the stems and store them in an airtight container. Dried rosemary can be used in cooking, added to spice blends, or used to make herbal teas.
Freeze the rosemary: If you want to preserve the fresh flavor of rosemary, freezing is a good option. Strip the leaves from the stems, chop them finely, and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Frozen rosemary can be used directly in recipes without thawing, making it a convenient option for future use.
Make rosemary-infused oil: Create a flavorful infused oil by combining fresh rosemary sprigs with olive oil. Heat the mixture over low heat for about 30 minutes to infuse the oil with the rosemary flavor. Strain the oil and store it in a clean bottle. This infused oil can be used for cooking, salad dressings, or as a dip for bread.
Make rosemary-infused vinegar: Similar to the infused oil, you can infuse vinegar with rosemary. Place fresh rosemary sprigs in a sterilized glass jar and fill it with vinegar (such as white wine or apple cider vinegar). Seal the jar tightly and let it sit in a cool, dark place for a few weeks to develop the flavor. Strain out the rosemary and use the infused vinegar for dressings, marinades, or as a condiment.
Use it in cooking: Rosemary adds a fragrant and earthy flavor to a variety of dishes. Use it in roasted meats, poultry, or vegetables. It can also enhance the flavor of soups, stews, sauces, and marinades. You can even add rosemary to bread dough for a unique twist.
Remember that the flavor of rosemary can be quite strong, so start with small amounts when using it in recipes and adjust to your taste. Enjoy experimenting with this versatile herb!