Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis) is a subshrub that is widespread in southern Europe. For a long time, the herb has been considered a medicinal plant because of its valuable ingredients. Although the species belongs to a different genus, it is reminiscent of the viper's bugloss native to Germany.
Hyssop can be harvested throughout the summer
When to harvest hyssop
Tender leaves can be harvested throughout the season. Shortly before flowering, these have a particularly high proportion of nutrients, vitamins and aromatic flavors. The heat-loving herb blooms between June and September. Harvest buds early in the morning after the dew has evaporated. The last harvest of the leaves takes place when the plants have fully withered.
Harvest options:
- pluck some leaves
- Cut off non-lignified shoots
- pick flowers
processing
When fresh, hyssop has an intense taste, which is why you should only add small amounts of the chopped leaves to food. It can be preserved so that you can use the harvest in the kitchen at a later date.
tips
Hyssop tea has a soothing effect on inflammation in the mouth.
drying
At room temperature and dry air, the leaves lose water within a few days, so they can be processed into a fine spice. Spread the harvest loosely on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If you have harvested whole shoots, you can bundle them up and hang them up with a rope. The fewer parts of the plant that are damaged, the more aromatic ingredients are preserved.
Freeze
Storage in the freezer offers the advantage that the taste of the plant is not lost. Let the leaves freeze flat on a surface. You can then fill the harvest into a bag and portion the herb as needed. It is suitable for seasoning warm dishes and salads.
insertion
Hyssop can be preserved in vinegar and oil. Make sure that the shoots are completely floating in the base. Otherwise there is a risk that the parts of the plant will become moldy. Leave the jar in a place at room temperature for two weeks so that the aromas dissolve in the liquid. It is suitable for marinating and cooking or provides a tasty sauce for salads.