Dehydrating strawberries is a great way to preserve their sweet, juicy flavor for use in a variety of recipes. Whether you’re looking to make your own dried fruit snacks or add dried strawberries to trail mix, cereal, or baked goods, dehydrating is a simple and effective method. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by washing and hulling the strawberries. Make sure to remove any leaves or stems, as these will not dehydrate well.
- Cut the strawberries into slices that are about 1/4 inch thick. This will help them dry evenly.
- Spread the strawberry slices out on a dehydrator tray, making sure they are not touching or overlapping.
- Set the dehydrator to 135 degrees Fahrenheit and let the strawberries dry for 8-12 hours, or until they are dry and leathery.
- Check the strawberries periodically, if they are dry and leathery they are ready to be taken out. if not let them dry for some more time.
- Once the strawberries are fully dehydrated, remove them from the dehydrator and let them cool. They can be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months.
If you don’t have a dehydrator, you can also dehydrate strawberries in an oven set to the lowest setting (around 140-150 degrees Fahrenheit). Place the strawberry slices on a baking sheet and dry them for 8-12 hours, or until they are dry and leathery. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t burn.
Dehydrated strawberries are a healthy, low-calorie snack that can be enjoyed on their own or used as a topping or ingredient in many recipes. They are a great way to enjoy the taste of fresh strawberries even when they are not in season.