How to Dry Fruit in an Opaque Dehydrator

Fruit can be preserved using a dehydrator.

Drying is an effective way to preserve excess fruit. Although the fruit loses some nutritional value when dried, it is still healthy and flavorful. The process of drying fruits at home with a dehydrator is just one drying method. An opaque dehydrator has a dark-colored exterior surface that doesn't allow light to enter. This allows the fruits to maintain more of their color and nutrients.

Things You'll Need

• Dehydrator (opaque exterior)
• Drying tray
• Lemon juice
• Slotted spoon
• Glass or plastic container
• Dark-colored glass jar or plastic freezer bags

Instructions

1. Select ripe fruit with good color and flavor.

2. Wash the fruit under running water to remove soil and pesticides. Check each piece of fruit for bruises and mold. Discard damaged fruits.

3. Pretreat fruit by mixing equal parts cold water and lemon juice in a container. Place the fruit in the solution. Leave in for 10 minutes. Pretreatment keeps light-colored fruits from darkening and also kills bacteria.

4. Remove fruit with a slotted spoon.

5. Place fruit in drying trays on one layer. Place the pit cavity of the fruit facing up.

6. Place in dehydrator. Turn on heat to 140 degrees F. Drying time depends on size and texture of fruits, so expect drying time of six hours to 36 hours. Turn the fruit over every few hours.

7. Turn the heat off when drying is almost done. Fruits are properly dry when they are leathery, but still pliable. Let fruit cool.

8. Place the cooled fruit in glass or plastic container. Fill the containers two-thirds of the way. Place the container in a well-ventilated area that is warm and dry. Leave the fruit here for four to 10 days. Shake the containers daily to separate fruit. This process is referred to as conditioning.

9. Package the fruit in dark-colored glass container. Placing the fruit in a plastic freezer bags is also an option. Store the dried fruit in a cool, dark area or in the freezer or refrigerator.

Tips & Warnings

• When laying the fruit on the tray, do not place pieces too close together. Good air circulation is necessary for proper drying.

References

• Colorado State University Extension: Drying Fruit
• Virginia Cooperative Extension: Using Dehydration to Preserve Fruits, Vegetable and Meats