Instructions for a Dehydrator
- 1). Clean the dehydrator trays and lid. Use warm, soapy water to thoroughly clean each tray and lid. Dry trays and lid completely with a clean kitchen towel. Clean the base with a damp sponge, do not immerse the base in water.
- 2). Wash your hands. It is important that your hands be washed with soap and water. Bacteria on your hands can transfer to the food and contaminate the finished product.
- 3). Rinse your vegetables with cold running water. To maintain the colors of vegetables, blanching is necessary. Place the vegetables in boiling water for three minutes. Remove and cool by placing the vegetables in cold water.
- 4). Use cold running water to rinse your fruit. Add the juice of one lemon to 4 cups of water and soak the fruit for approximately three minutes. This will keep the vibrant colors of the fruit during dehydration.
- 5). Slice your vegetables and fruit into thin, evenly cut rounds. Remove and discard the stems. Cut away blemished or bruised areas before slicing. It is very important to be as uniform as you can while slicing to ensure even dehydration times.
- 6). Spray each tray with cooking spray. This will keep your fruits and vegetables from sticking. Place your slices of fruits and vegetables on the trays. Do not let them touch as air needs to circulate around them for even drying.
- 7). Place all the trays on top of the dehydrating unit by stacking them. Place the lid on the top of the trays and turn the dehydrator's power on.
- 8). Leave your fruit and vegetables to dry. Each type of fruit or vegetable has a recommended drying time which can range from 5 to 38 hours. Check the items often and rotate the trays. Over drying can lead to a leathery, inedible product.
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