How to Dehydrate Pineapple and Papaya:
Dehydrated papaya and pineapple are colorful additions to your food storage that are also very versatile. Eat them as a healthy snack alternative to processed gummies and candies, or use them in cookies, baked goods, dishes, and more.
Instructions:
- Wash fruit with soap and water.
- Papayas and pineapple have to be steamed prior to dehydrating if you are going to use them in gelatin. It is also preferred to steam papaya and pineapple prior to dehydrating if you plan to use it in an upside down cake, breads, cookies, and smoothies. The only time we do not steam these fruits before dehydrating is when planning to grind it up in powdered form for teas and sauces, or to eat it as an on-the-go snack.
- Horizontally slice into 1/8 thick chips, or chop into 1/4 inch by 1/4 inch cubes.
- Evenly spread on your dehydrator tray, and dehydrate at 125 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-12 hours.
- Store in a vacuum and Mylar bag for later use in recipes, or eat as is!
Dryness Check:
A properly dehydrated papaya or pineapple chip will feel dry to the touch, and be slightly bendable but easily torn. A properly dehydrated papaya or pineapple cube will feel dry and “click” when dropped on the table, and be firm but chewy when eaten: like a firm gummy candy. If yours do not feel this way, just put them back in the dehydrator for a few more hours!
Photos
In the first photo, you can see crisp pineapple chips (left), chewy pineapple cube “gummies” (center), and a cinnamon-coated pineapple chip (right). In the second photo you can see pineapple used as a fun garnish for summer or late night drinks!
