Drying

Fruits

Fruits are ideal to dry because they have a naturally high sugar con- tent. They are high in acid (and consequently less prone to spoilage and micro-organisms), and taste delicious! Seasonally, fruit can be obtained in bulk from orchards or farms for considerably lower prices than what you may find in

the supermarket.

Selection

Fruits picked at their prime have the highest natural sugar content and the best nutritional value. For the best quality product, choose only fresh, ripe, unblemished fruits.

Preparation

Wash fruit thoroughly and remove any imperfections. Remove skins (if desired), stems, and stones. Halve or slice in 1⁄4" to 1⁄2" circles or slices (a food processor or slicer will speed the slicing and ensure more uniform slices, which will allow fruits to dry at the same rate.) Some fruits have a natural protective wax coating such as figs, prunes, grapes, blueberries, cranberries, etc. If you want to dry these fruits whole, dip into boiling water for 1 to 2 minutes (the amount of

time needed depends on the thickness and toughness of the skin) to speed dehydration. This makes the skin more porous by removing the natural wax coating and thereby speeds up the drying time. This process is called checking. Small lines appear on the fruit skin allowing moisture to escape but may be too fine to be visible. Many fruits can be dried in halves with the pits removed. If they are dried with the skins on, be sure to place them skin-side down to prevent fruit juice and pulp from dripping down through the trays. Check frequently near the end of the drying process and remove pieces as they become dry. To peel or not to peel is a decision only you can make (if the fruit has been artificially waxed, it should definitely be peeled to remove the wax). The skin has nutritional value, but skins tend to be very tough when dried and fruits take longer to dry with the skin on. Try fruits both ways – peeled and not peeled – then decide for yourself.

Pre-treat if desired and place the fruit into the dehydrator to dry at 135°F (57°C).

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Nesco Food Dehydrator manual Drying Fruits
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Food Dehydrator specifications

The Nesco Food Dehydrator is a versatile kitchen appliance that enables home cooks and health enthusiasts to preserve food efficiently. With a reputation for reliability and quality, this dehydrator stands out in the market for its innovative technologies and user-friendly features.

One of the most notable features of the Nesco Food Dehydrator is its patented Converge-Flow technology. This unique drying system utilizes a top-down airflow, which ensures that hot air is evenly distributed throughout the dehydrator. This design prevents the need for rotating trays, resulting in consistent drying without the hassle of manually rearranging food items. This technology allows for higher efficiency, leading to better results in less time.

The dehydrator boasts adjustable temperature settings, allowing users to control the drying process based on the type of food being processed. Ranging from 95 degrees Fahrenheit to 160 degrees Fahrenheit, these settings cater to various foods, from herbs and fruits to meats and vegetables. This flexibility makes the Nesco Food Dehydrator suitable for a variety of preservation needs.

Another characteristic of the Nesco Food Dehydrator is its capacity. With multiple trays that can often be expanded, users can customize the amount of food they wish to dehydrate at once. Many models come with five to twelve trays, providing ample space for large batches of fruits, jerky, or granola. Additionally, the trays are typically made from food-grade plastic, ensuring that they are safe for food contact and easy to clean.

The Nesco Food Dehydrator also typically includes a clear lid, allowing users to monitor the drying process without disrupting airflow. This design advantage not only enhances convenience but also contributes to energy efficiency by minimizing heat loss.

In summary, the Nesco Food Dehydrator is an excellent choice for those looking to extend the shelf life of their food while maintaining essential nutrients. Its advanced drying technology, adjustable temperature settings, ample capacity, and practical design features make it an indispensable tool in any kitchen. Whether you are preparing healthy snacks or creating homemade jerky, the Nesco Food Dehydrator guarantees a reliable and efficient drying experience.
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