How to Dehydrate Stir Fry?

Dehydrating stir fry involves spreading it in a thin layer on parchment paper in a dehydrator and drying it for 8-10 hours until completely dry, then rehydrating with water when ready to eat. This method allows you to preserve your favorite stir-fry dishes for future meals, especially useful for camping or long-term storage.

Preparing Stir Fry for Dehydration

To successfully dehydrate stir fry, preparation is key. The goal is to remove as much moisture as possible efficiently and prevent spoilage.

• Cook Thoroughly: Ensure your stir fry is fully cooked before dehydrating.
• Reduce Oil and Sauce: Excess oil can go rancid, and thick sauces can prolong drying time. If possible, make your stir fry with less oil and a lighter sauce, or drain off excess liquid before dehydrating. Some suggest making a stir-fry that is less saucy than you might typically eat.
• Cut Ingredients Uniformly: Smaller, uniformly cut pieces (especially vegetables and meat) will dry more quickly and evenly. Consider slicing vegetables thinly and chopping meat into small, bite-sized pieces.
• Cool Completely: Allow the stir fry to cool down to room temperature before placing it in the dehydrator. This prevents condensation and ensures efficient drying.

Dehydration Process

The core of dehydrating stir fry lies in proper spreading and consistent drying.

1. Prepare Dehydrator Trays: Line your dehydrator trays with parchment paper. This prevents the stir fry from sticking to the trays and makes cleanup easier.
2. Spread in Thin Layer: Spread the stir fry in a thin, even layer on the parchment paper. Avoid overcrowding the trays, as this will impede airflow and extend drying time. Ensure no clumps are present.
3. Set Temperature: Most dehydrators recommend a temperature between 135°F to 145°F (57°C to 63°C) for meats and vegetables to ensure safety and effective drying.
4. Dehydrate Until Dry: Dehydrate for 8-10 hours until dry. The stir fry should be brittle and crumbly, with no moisture evident in any of the pieces. Break a piece open to check for moisture in the center. Larger or denser pieces may take longer.
5. Cool and Store: Once completely dry, turn off the dehydrator and let the dehydrated stir fry cool completely before storing it in airtight containers. Vacuum-sealed bags or jars with oxygen absorbers are ideal for long-term storage. Store in a cool, dark place.

Rehydrating Dehydrated Stir Fry

Rehydrating stir fry is a simple process, making it a convenient meal for backpacking or quick dinners.

• On the Trail (or at Home): To each cup stir fry add 1 cup water. You can adjust the water amount slightly based on desired consistency.
• Method:
  • Combine the dehydrated stir fry with the recommended amount of water in a pot or rehydrating bag.
  • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the ingredients are tender and have absorbed the water, typically 5-10 minutes.
  • Alternatively, for backpacking, add boiling water to the dehydrated stir-fry in a heat-safe container, cover, and let sit for 15-20 minutes until rehydrated.
• Enhancements: You can add fresh ingredients like chopped green onions or a dash of soy sauce after rehydration to enhance flavor.

Quick Dehydration & Rehydration Guide