Ingredients:
- 1 cup coarse sea salt
- Assorted fresh herbs (e.g., rosemary, thyme, sage, oregano, basil)
- Optional: Citrus zest (lemon, lime, or orange)
- Equipment: Mortar and pestle, baking sheet, parchment paper
Instructions:
- Gather Fresh Herbs:
Collect a variety of fresh herbs. Choose flavors that complement each other, such as rosemary, thyme, sage, oregano, or basil. Rinse and pat them dry. - Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C). - Prepare Herbs:
Remove the leaves from the herb stems. Discard the stems and finely chop the herbs. If you’re using citrus zest, finely grate the zest from the fruits. - Combine Salt and Herbs:
In a mortar, combine the coarse sea salt with the chopped herbs and citrus zest. Use the pestle to grind and mix the ingredients together until well combined. - Spread on Baking Sheet:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the herb-infused salt mixture evenly on the parchment paper. - Dry in the Oven:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and allow the herb-infused salt to dry for about 1–2 hours. Check and stir the mixture occasionally to ensure even drying. - Cool and Store:
Once the herb-infused salt is completely dry, remove it from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Transfer the infused salt to airtight containers or jars for storage. - Usage:
Use this herb-infused salt to enhance the flavors of your dishes. Sprinkle it on roasted vegetables, grilled meats, or pasta dishes. It’s a versatile seasoning that adds a burst of fresh herb flavor to your favorite recipes. - Gift Idea:
Package the herb-infused salt in decorative jars and give them as thoughtful homemade gifts to friends and family who enjoy cooking.
Enjoy the rich and aromatic flavors that this herb-infused salt adds to your culinary creations!