Can You Use Dried And Fresh Herbs Interchangeably In A Recipe?

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Herbs can a dish extraordinary, often representing the perfect way to elevate a home-cooked meal. The question of when to use dried or fresh herbs, much less the most effective way to use each, remains a point of confusion for many home cooks. For advice on when to use dried or fresh herbs — and whether or not they can ever be used interchangeably — you can count on chef Randy Feltis of @‌KatherineWants on TikTok and author of "Katherine Wants: The Ultimate Date Night Cookbook," to share his insights.

"For the most part they are interchangeable," says Feltis, so long as you adjust the quantities when you do so. "For fresh I always double the quantity because they aren't as powerful," he explains, "[D]ried chives for example, have more flavour than fresh." The unique strengths of dried and fresh herbs are worth considering when cooking especially herbal dishes. While dried herbs often pack more flavor, Feltis still advocates for fresh ones when you can get them. "All herbs work better fresh," he says, but acknowledges that practicalities can come into play as "some are harder to find than others."

According to chef Feltis, the best way to store fresh herbs before using them is to employ the paper towel trick that makes hardy herbs last longer. "I like to wrap them in a damp paper towel and put them in plastic or vegetable bag to keep them fresh and crisp," he says. "This creates a humid space which they thrive in. Some like to put them in water but I find that waterlogs them and drowns them." So long as the herbs are dried before storing this way, they should retain their freshness well.

While larger bags are best for fresh herbs because they provide circulation, a smaller airtight container works better for the dried variety. "The smaller the better so that less air gets into it," explains Feltis. "That said, you should clean out your herbs annually." And even though dried herbs are the way to go for longevity, you may also wish to consider freezing extra fresh herbs to enjoy later.