Should I Pre-Treat?

Pre-treatment isn't necessary for most fruits. The majority of fruits are simply sliced and dried. However, some fruits tend to oxidize more than others. Oxidation causes browning of cut food surfaces when fruit is dried, This causes a loss in flavor and vitamins A and C.

Pre-treatment minimizes oxidation, and gives you a superior-quality, better tast- ing product with less vitamin loss.

Apples, pears, peaches and apricots are better when pre-treated. They are more appetizing, have a longer shelf life, and higher nutritional value when pre-treated prior to drying. Place cut fruits that tend to brown in a holding solution of ascor- bic acid to reduce browning during preparation. Do not keep cut fruit in a holding solution for more than an hour.

Pre-Treatment

Pre-treatments can vary from soaking in fruit juice, ascorbic acid mixtures, syrup blanching, steaming, to sulfating. The results of each of these methods also vary. Experiment and decide for yourself which one you like best.

Use one of the following methods of pre-treatment.

Slice fruit directly into juice or ascorbic acid mixture. Soak 5 minutes and place on trays. Fruits can also be dipped in honey or a honey/fruit juice mixture.

Syrup Blanching

Fruit which has been syrup blanched is sweeter because it absorbs some of the sugar from the blanching solution. It also tends to be stickier, even though it is rinsed prior to drying.

Prepare a sugar syrup by mixing 1 cup sugar, 1 cup white corn syrup, and

2 cups water. Boil and add prepared fruit. Simmer for 10 minutes over low heat. Remove and allow to stand in the hot syrup 30 to 45 minutes. Drain the fruit, rinse lightly with cold water, and place on drying trays.

Sulfating

Soaking fruits in a solution of sodium bisulfite slows oxidation and reduces browning, as well as the loss of vitamins A and C. Sodium bisulfite may be obtained from wine-making supply houses. Sulfating isn’t recommended for use if individuals are on restricted sodium diets or have asthmatic or respiratory conditions. Dissolve 1 table- spoon sodium bisulfite in 1 gallon water. Soak 5 to 10 minutes. Rinse.

Natural Pre-Treatment

Fruit juices containing ascorbic acid may be used as a natural pre-treatment to reduce browning. Although there will still be some loss of color, pineapple, orange, lemon, or lime juice can be used. Ascorbic acid mixtures, available from your supermarket can also be used. Follow the directions on the package.

Garnishes

After fruits have been prepared for dry- ing, garnish with spices, gelatin powders or coconut to give fruits a snappy flavor. Granola, chopped nuts, poppy seeds, sesame seeds, or sunflower seeds can also be sprinkled on fruits. These adhere best to fresh fruits if the fruits have first been dipped in a fruit juice or honey. Use your imagination for other dips

or sprinkles.

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Nesco Food Dehydrator manual Should I Pre-Treat?
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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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