Dried fruit is a healthy option for those who like sweets and fruit. It is easy to make and can be the healthiest and quickest snack for children.
These fruits contain sugar too, but they are not as harmful as the refined sugar we normally consume.
Select the fruit
Choose the fruit you want to dehydrate. There are many options to choose from. The most common are apples, peaches, plums, bananas or strawberries.
But you can also try other types such as figs, kiwi, pineapples, pears, mango, citrus peels and many others. The limit is your imagination. Make sure they are in good condition.
Cut the fruit
You can cut them into slices or cubes. Before doing so, wash each one very well.
You also want to make sure that you cut the pieces into similar sizes so that they all dry at the same time.
Kiln dried
Preheat the oven to 60°C. Place the trays of fruit in the oven and leave the oven door slightly open. This will allow any steam to escape.
Check if it is ready
Each type of fruit has a drying time, so you should test if it is dry as follows:
- Touch a piece of fruit; if it is dry but not brittle and pliable, it is ready.
- Take a piece of the fruit and cut it up. If there is still moisture left, it may need a little more baking time.
With these simple steps you already have your homemade dried fruit.
You can experiment with dehydrating a large volume of different fruits, such as kiwis, apples, strawberries, bananas…
Gianella Pedemonte
