How do you dry water spinach?

To dry water spinach, you prepare the leaves and then dehydrate them in a dehydrator or oven at 125°F for 4-10 hours until they become crisp.

Drying water spinach is an excellent way to preserve this nutritious leafy green, allowing you to enjoy its benefits long after harvest. The process involves careful preparation followed by a controlled drying method to ensure optimal results.

Preparing Water Spinach for Drying

Proper preparation is crucial for efficient and effective drying. Taking a few simple steps before drying ensures even moisture removal and better preservation.

• Stem Removal: Start by removing the stems from the water spinach. This facilitates better drying, as stems contain more moisture and can dry at a different rate than the leaves. You can dry the stems and leaves separately if you wish, depending on your intended use.
• Thorough Cleaning: If the water spinach is not pre-washed, it's essential to trim and wash it very thoroughly to remove any dirt, debris, or insects. Rinse the leaves under cool, running water.
• Remove Excess Moisture: After washing, shake or gently pat the water spinach dry with a clean towel to remove any excess surface moisture. This step is important to kickstart the drying process and prevent mold.
• Arrange on Trays: Lay out the prepared water spinach leaves in a single layer on dehydrator trays. Ensuring a single layer allows for even airflow and consistent drying across all the leaves. Avoid overcrowding the trays, as this can extend drying time and lead to uneven results.

Drying Water Spinach

Once prepared, the water spinach is ready for the drying process using a dehydrator or a conventional oven.

Using a Dehydrator or Oven

The most effective way to dry water spinach is by using a dehydrator or an oven set to a low temperature.

• Temperature: Set your dehydrator or oven to 125°F. This low temperature is ideal for preserving the nutrients and color of the greens while safely removing moisture.
• Duration: Dehydrate the water spinach for 4-10 hours. The exact time will vary depending on the humidity, the thickness of the leaves, and the specific appliance you are using.
• Achieving Crispness: The water spinach is fully dried when it becomes crisp. You should be able to easily crumble the leaves between your fingers. If they still feel pliable or soft, continue drying them in shorter increments (e.g., 30-60 minutes) until they reach the desired crispness.

Drying Parameters Summary

Here's a quick overview of the drying parameters:

After drying, allow the water spinach to cool completely before storing it in airtight containers in a cool, dark place. Properly dried water spinach can be stored for an extended period and rehydrated for use in soups, stews, or ground into a powder for smoothies and seasonings.