You can easily make dried apricots without a dehydrator by using your oven set to a low temperature. This method effectively removes moisture from the fruit, preserving it similarly to using a dedicated dehydrator.
Oven Drying Apricots: Step-by-Step
Drying apricots in the oven is a straightforward process. Following these steps will help you achieve delicious, chewy dried fruit right in your kitchen.
1. Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven. Set the temperature to 200 degrees Fahrenheit. A low temperature is crucial for drying rather than cooking the fruit.
2. Rinse Ripe Fruit
Select ripe apricots and rinse them thoroughly under cool water. Remove any stems or leaves.
3. Cut Fruit into Thin Slices
Cut the rinsed apricots into thin slices. Aim for consistent thickness to ensure even drying. You can halve them, quarter them, or slice them thinly, depending on your preference, but thinner pieces will dry faster. Removing the pit is necessary at this stage.
4. Arrange the Fruit for Drying
Arrange the apricot slices on baking sheets. It's best to use a rack placed inside the baking sheet if possible, or line the sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Ensure the slices are in a single layer and do not overlap. This allows air to circulate around each piece.
5. Dry Your Fruit for Several Hours
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven. The drying process takes several hours. The exact time will vary depending on the thickness of your slices and your oven. Check the apricots periodically. They are done when they are leathery and pliable, but no longer soft or moist. You might need to flip the pieces halfway through the drying time for more even results.
6. Store Your Dried Fruit Properly
Once the apricots are dried, let them cool completely at room temperature. Properly storing your dried fruit is key to its longevity. Store the cooled dried apricots in an airtight container, such as a jar or a plastic container with a tight-fitting lid, in a cool, dark place or the refrigerator.
Following these steps allows you to successfully dry apricots using just your oven, providing a simple alternative to a dehydrator.
