How to Air Dry Fruit

Air drying fruit is a great way to preserve it naturally and without the use of any special equipment. Here are the steps to air dry fruit:

1. Choose your fruit: Not all fruits are suitable for air drying. Some of the best options include apples, pears, peaches, plums, grapes, and berries. Make sure the fruit is ripe, but not overripe.

2. Wash the fruit: Rinse the fruit in cool water to remove any dirt, debris, or pesticides. Pat the fruit dry with a towel.

3. Slice the fruit: Cut the fruit into small, even slices. If you are drying larger fruit like apples or pears, you may want to cut them into quarters or eighths.

4. Remove the seeds: If the fruit has seeds or pits, remove them. This will help the fruit to dry evenly.

5. Arrange the fruit: Place the fruit slices in a single layer on a baking sheet or a wire rack. Make sure that the slices do not touch each other.

6. Dry the fruit: Place the baking sheet or wire rack in a warm, dry place. Ideally, the temperature should be around 135°F (57°C). You can use an oven with the door cracked open, a dehydrator, or even a sunny windowsill. Leave the fruit to dry for several hours, turning the slices occasionally.

7. Test for doneness: The fruit is done when it is dry, but still slightly pliable. To test, press the fruit gently. If it feels dry and leathery, it is ready. If it is still moist, let it dry for a bit longer.

8. Store the fruit: Once the fruit is dry, let it cool completely. Store it in an airtight container or a zip-top bag. You can also wrap the fruit in parchment paper or cheesecloth to prevent it from sticking together.

Air-dried fruit can be enjoyed as a healthy snack, added to baked goods, or used in savory dishes.