How to Dry Nasturtium for Tea?

Nasturtium leaves and flowers are packed with beneficial compounds, including high levels of vitamin C and antimicrobial properties. This simple guide will teach you exactly how to dry nasturtium for tea, ensuring you can enjoy its peppery flavor and health benefits long after the growing season ends.

Quick Summary

This comprehensive guide covers essential steps for harvesting, cleaning, and drying nasturtium leaves and flowers using various methods, including air-drying, oven-drying, and a food dehydrator, for preparing delicious and beneficial tea.

Key Points

• Harvest and Clean Gently: Wipe nasturtium instead of rinsing to avoid mold.

• Low and Slow Drying is Best: Use low heat (below 115°F/46°C) or air-dry to preserve quality.

• Three Effective Drying Methods: Air-drying, dehydrator, and oven (on lowest setting) are viable options.

• Store Properly for Longevity: Use airtight glass containers in a cool, dark place for up to a year.

• Proper Brewing is Key: Crush dried nasturtium before steeping for 10–15 minutes.

• Adjust Flavor with Add-ins: Enhance the tea's peppery taste with honey or lemon.

Harvesting and Preparing Nasturtium for Drying

Proper preparation is crucial for preserving the quality, color, and flavor of nasturtium for tea. Harvest in the morning after the dew has dried.

Selecting the Best Nasturtium Parts

Use vibrant, healthy leaves and fully open flowers. Avoid those with blemishes or insect damage. Green seed pods can also be used, but leaves and flowers are preferred for tea.

Proper Cleaning Technique

Wiping is better than rinsing, which can lead to mold.

• Wipe instead of wash: Gently wipe with a moistened paper towel to remove dirt and insects.
• Inspect thoroughly: Check for bugs, especially aphids, and damage.
• Ensure dryness: If rinsing, pat dry completely to prevent mold.

Comparison of Nasturtium Drying Methods

Different methods offer various trade-offs in speed and quality.

Drying Method	Speed	Color Retention	Flavor Profile	Pros	Cons
Air-Drying	Slow (3-7 days)	High	Excellent (intense)	No special equipment; preserves oils.	Slow; requires good air circulation; can collect dust.
Dehydrator	Medium (4-12 hours)	High	Excellent (consistent)	Faster and reliable; precise temperature control.	Requires equipment; initial cost.
Oven-Drying	Fast (1-2 hours)	Variable (some browning)	Good (can be muted)	Quickest; uses standard oven; good for small batches.	Risk of scorching; less consistent; requires monitoring.

Step-by-Step Drying Instructions

Air-Drying Nasturtium

1. Prepare: Lay nasturtium in a single layer on a mesh screen or rack.
2. Location: Place in a warm, dark, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
3. Monitor: Turn occasionally. Drying takes several days.
4. Test: Nasturtium is dry when brittle and crumbles easily.

Using a Food Dehydrator

1. Arrange: Spread in a single layer on trays, avoiding overcrowding.
2. Temperature: Set to a low 95–115°F (35–46°C) to preserve flavor and color.
3. Check: Drying takes 4 to 12 hours. Check periodically for brittleness.

Oven-Drying Nasturtium

1. Temperature: Preheat oven to its lowest setting, 125–170°F (50–75°C).
2. Prepare: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange nasturtium in a single layer.
3. Door Prop: Prop the oven door open slightly to allow moisture to escape.
4. Bake: Check every 10–15 minutes, turning for even drying. Takes 1 to 2 hours. Watch carefully to avoid scorching.

Storing Dried Nasturtium for Tea

Proper storage maintains freshness.

• Container: Use a sealed glass jar, stored in a dark, cool place.
• Avoid plastic: Plastic can trap moisture and cause mold.
• Label: Label with contents and date. Dried nasturtium lasts up to a year.

Preparing Nasturtium Tea

Making tea is simple.

1. Crush: Gently crush dried nasturtium before brewing to release flavor.
2. Measure: Use 1 to 2 teaspoons per cup of boiling water.
3. Steep: Pour boiling water over herbs and steep for 10 to 15 minutes.
4. Serve: Strain and serve. The peppery flavor can be modified with honey or lemon.

Conclusion

Drying nasturtium allows you to enjoy its flavor and benefits year-round. Choose your preferred method and follow the steps for harvesting, cleaning, drying, and storing for the best results.

Potential Side Effects and Safety

Nasturtium tea is generally safe, but may irritate stomachs, especially with ulcers. Start with small amounts and consult a healthcare professional if pregnant, breastfeeding, or with health conditions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh nasturtium for tea?

Yes, fresh nasturtium can be used. Steeping a few leaves or flowers in boiling water works, but dried nasturtium offers a more concentrated flavor and is better for storage.

What parts of the nasturtium plant are used for tea?

Both the leaves and flowers are suitable for nasturtium tea, contributing beneficial properties and the characteristic peppery flavor.

What temperature is best for drying nasturtium?

Low temperatures are recommended. Use 95–115°F (35–46°C) in a dehydrator, or the lowest oven setting (125–170°F/50–75°C) with the door propped open.

How long does dried nasturtium tea last?

Stored in an airtight, dark glass container, dried nasturtium can last up to a year, but is best used within six months.

Does nasturtium tea have any health benefits?

Nasturtium is known for its vitamin C, antimicrobial, and antioxidant content. It's traditionally used for immune support and may help with respiratory and urinary tract infections.

Why should I avoid washing nasturtium before drying?

Washing can leave moisture that leads to mold during drying. Wiping gently with a damp cloth is a safer cleaning method.

Can I use a microwave to dry nasturtium?

Microwaving is risky for delicate nasturtium, potentially causing scorching and inconsistent results that affect flavor and potency.