You should wilt most fresh herbs for about 2-3 days, or dry completely prior to infusing them in oil. I know that we don't always have 2-3 days to wait, you may also spray the plant with a little bit of alcohol (vodka, etc.) to help dry them out. The reason for having the plant wilt a bit is because the plant has water in it, water in oil causes mold. You don't want to lose a batch of infused oil due to mold.
Preparation for dried herbs
Long infusion
Place dry or wilted herbs in a jar and cover with oil. Shaking to make sure you get all the herbs covered with oil.
Place the container in a warm place for about a month. Shaking the container periodically.
Place a piece of cheesecloth over a bowl (you may also use an old t-shirt) and pour contents into the cloth.
Squeeze all the oil from the cloth and discard use herbs.
*if you used wilted herbs, allow the strained oil to sit overnight and carefully strain the oil off the water that may have settled.
Short infusion
Place dried/wilted herbs into a jar. Dried herbs should have a lid covering the jar and if using wilted herbs leave the lid off, allowing the water to evaporate.
Place a mason jar lid on the bottom of a crockpot or pan.
Place your jar of oil on top of the lid.
Fill crockpot/pan with water, covering about 3/4 of the jar with water.
Infuse on the lowest setting for at least 10 hours. Stir the oil frequently, allowing the oil to fully cover the plant. Also allowing the oil not to burn or get too hot.
Cool oil overnight and then strain.
Store oil in a cool, dark place or in the refrigerator.
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