Q&A for How to Dry Sage

You could try, but it won't really work. Drying is a process that involves low temperatures in a warm area. Microwaves will cook the moisture in the leaves and make it gross, not dry and crispy.

You can, but since drying sage properly will already do enough to preserve it, there is no need to.

See the wikiHow article How to Make a Smudge Stick . That uses white sage, which is actually a different kind of plant to the culinary sage discussed here (white sage is native to the Americas; sage the kitchen herb is native to Europe and is more closely related to oregano than it is to white sage). However, the method it uses for making a bundle is the same for making a sage bundle as well.

Yes, you can. If you don't want to refrigerate your fresh sage, you can always freeze the leaves. To do so, wash and pat them dry, remove the leaves from the stems, and pack them loosely in freezer bags and date them. They can be kept frozen for up to one year.

Yes. Put some warm water into a kettle and put the leaves inside for 20 minutes. Then they'll be perfect for the oven.

If stored properly in an airtight container, sage can keep for one year after drying.

Yes, you can use fresh sage in cooking and baths, though you may want to cut it up when cooking. The drying process works for most leafy herbs.

Yes, you can use fresh sage even if it has flowers. Sage flowers are edible and have a delicate flavor that complements many dishes. The leaves, which are primarily used in cooking, can be added to sauces, soups, and stuffing, or used whole to flavor roasts and stews. Sage flowers add a subtle flavor and decorative touch to salads, soups, and beverages, and they also work well in herb butters and infused oils.

Sage is a versatile ingredient with a strong, earthy flavor that pairs well with fatty meats.

Yes, you can store dried sage in the freezer. When you're ready to use it, you can let it thaw in the fridge and then on the counter.

You can fit about 3 sage bundles depending on the size of the bag. In a smaller bag, like a polythene one, you might need to use only 1 bundle.