Fruit Drying Guidelines

Expect a variance in the time needed to dry different fruits. Drying times are affect- ed by the size of the load, fruit thickness, the moisture content of the food itself, as well as other variables discussed in Drying Time, page 10. If pre-treatment is suggested, use one of the pre-treatments indicated on page 14. The guidelines below are general. For the most accurate drying times, keep records of your own specific experiences in the space provided under each general time guideline in the table below.

1.Spread fruits in single layers unless otherwise noted.

2.Usual drying temperature is 135°F (57°C)

 

 

Average

 

Food

Preparation

Drying Time

Uses

 

 

 

 

Apples

Pare, core, cut in 3/8"

4-10 hrs.

Applesauce, pies, cobblers

 

rings. Pre- treat

 

snacks, breads and cookies

 

 

 

 

Apricots

Cut in half, remove pit

8-16 hrs.

Desserts, muesli, meat dishes

 

and cut in quarters.

 

pies and sauces

 

Pre-treat

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bananas

Peel, cut in 3/8" slices

6-12 hrs.

Snacks, baby food, granola,

 

or divide lengthwise

 

cookies, and banana bread

 

 

 

 

Blueberries

Wash and remove stems.

10-18 hrs.

Breads, baked goods, snacks

 

Dip into boiling water for

 

ice cream, yogurt and muesli

 

1-2 minutes

 

 

Canned

Dip in boiling water

6-12 hrs.

snacks, breads,granola

Fruit

Drain well. If small, place

 

 

 

on mesh screen.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cherries

Wash, remove stems and pit

18-26 hrs.

Breads, baked goods

 

 

 

and snacks

 

 

 

 

Citrus

Peel, if desired.

6-12 hrs.

Flavorings when powdered

Fruits

Slice 3/8" thick

 

 

 

 

 

 

Coconut

Remove dark outer skin,

3-8 hrs.

Cakes, cookies,

 

slice 3/8" thick. Dry at 110°F

 

desserts and granola

 

 

 

 

Cranberries

Wash and remove stems.

10-18 hrs.

Breads, baked goods, snacks

 

Dip into boiling water for

 

ice cream, yogurt and muesli

 

1-2 minutes

 

 

Figs

Remove stems and halve

8-15 hrs

Fillings, cakes, puddings,

 

 

 

breads and cookies

17

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Nesco Food Dehydrator manual Fruit Drying Guidelines

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.