The provided reference is brief, but it implies that you should lay the pineapple sage leaves directly on a dehydrator screen, unlike herbs like thyme or rosemary which might use a different type of herb screen.
Here's a general method for drying pineapple sage, based on common herb drying practices:
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Harvesting: Pick the pineapple sage leaves in the morning after the dew has dried, but before the heat of the day. This is when the essential oils are most concentrated.
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Washing (Optional): If the leaves are dirty, gently wash them and pat them dry thoroughly. Excess moisture can prolong the drying time and increase the risk of mold.
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Preparation: Remove the leaves from the stems. This speeds up the drying process.
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Drying Methods: There are several ways to dry pineapple sage:
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Dehydrator: As suggested in the reference, spread the leaves in a single layer on the dehydrator trays. Set the dehydrator to a low temperature (around 95-115°F or 35-46°C) and dry until the leaves are brittle and crumble easily. The time will vary depending on your dehydrator and humidity levels, but it typically takes 1-4 hours.
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Air Drying: Tie small bunches of stems together and hang them upside down in a warm, dry, well-ventilated place away from direct sunlight. You can also spread the leaves on a screen or clean cloth in a similar location. This method takes longer, usually several days to a few weeks.
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Oven Drying (Least Recommended): Spread the leaves in a single layer on a baking sheet. Set the oven to the lowest possible temperature (ideally below 170°F or 77°C) and crack the door slightly to allow moisture to escape. Check frequently to prevent burning. This method is faster than air drying, but it's easy to overheat the herbs and lose their flavor.
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Checking for Dryness: The leaves should be completely dry and brittle to the touch. If they are still pliable, they need more drying time.
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Storage: Once completely dry, store the pineapple sage leaves in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place. Whole leaves retain their flavor longer than crushed ones, so you may want to store them whole and crush them just before using. Properly dried and stored pineapple sage can last for up to a year.
