12 to 24 hours. In the dehydrator, they are usually dry in 6 to 12 hours.

Paint and seal as directed in the salt dough recipe.

Potpourri

Home dried potpourri and sachets are fun and easy to do in your dehydrator. Take advantage of your flower garden in the summer by dehydrating petals, for potpourri, to use the rest of the year. Combine petals with store-bought spices, fixatives, and essential oils to make inexpensive, elegant gifts.

Pick flowers when they are about three- quarters open – when they are fully open, they lose fragrance. Gather about twice the amount you believe you’ll need, since they shrink as they dry.

Remove petals from flower heads and pull herb leaves from their stems. Spread in a single layer on a Clean-A- Screen® accessory and place in your dehydrator.

Set temperature at 90°- 100°F (35°C). Dry until brittle-dry, which may take from 2 to 12 hours, depending upon the plants, the amount, and the model of dehydrator you are using.

Store different flowers and herbs sepa- rately in covered jars until you’re ready to mix. Keep in a cool place, out of direct sunlight.

Experiment with different combina- tions, mixing small quantities and recording the results until you come up with a blend that you like.

To blend ingredients, measure and stir dried materials into a large bowl.

When you have the right blend of color and fragrance, add fixative, spices, and oil. Age in a tightly sealed jar for 2 - 6 weeks, shaking occasionally to blend fragrances.

Package in smaller decorative contain- ers or bags for gifts or personal use.

Sweet & Spice Potpourri

For a perfect holiday gift, place one cup of this recipe in a lace bag tied with a colorful ribbon.

1cup dried rose petals

1⁄4 cup dried lavender blossoms

1⁄8 cup dried rosemary

1⁄8 cup dried chamomile

1⁄2 cup dried grated orange peel

1 tsp. powdered orrisroot

2tsp. orange-spice tea

1tbl. coriander seed

1tbl. whole cloves

1stick cinnamon, crumbled 1⁄3 tsp. ground cloves

1⁄4 tsp. ground nutmeg

2drops rose oil

1drop orange oil

1drop lavender oil

1⁄2 cup dried bachelor’s button petals (for color)

In a large bowl, combine rose petals, lavender, rosemary, chamomile, and orange peel. Add orrisroot, tea, and spices. Add oils, sprinkling lightly over mixture. Mix in bachelor’s button petals. Makes about 2 cups potpourri. There are numerous ingredients that produce wonderful smelling potpourri! Experiment with plants that you have available or purchase plants from an herbalist, drug-store, or supermarket.

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Nesco Food Dehydrator manual Potpourri
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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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