How to Get the Most Out of Your Food Dehydrator

In a world where the Instant Pot reigns supreme as the latest kitchen trend, the food dehydrator may seem like the slow and steady option. However, much like the tortoise in Aesop's fable, the dehydrator works at its own pace, enhancing the flavors and textures of your ingredients in ways that faster methods simply can't match.

A food dehydrator is perfect for those with an abundance of homegrown produce but limited freezer space. It's an easier method than canning, and while the process takes time, it requires little attention from you. Plus, if you're trying to save on energy costs or avoid using your oven for extended periods, a dehydrator could be the ideal kitchen companion.

Beginner's Tips

New to dehydrating? Don’t worry—it's a simple process. Just keep these key tips in mind as you get started:

• Start with fresh, clean, and dried food. You want to begin the process with the best product possible, to help you get the best results in the end.
• Cut food into uniform pieces. This ensures everything dehydrates evenly and at the same time.
• Check back often. Because the dehydrator works so slowly, you'll have plenty of time to realize when the food is finished dehydrating. Unlike with canning or baking, everything stops the minute you turn the machine off.
• If your goal is to create shelf-stable food, dehydrate thoroughly. To test, put a small portion of the food in a lidded glass jar. If it fogs up, the food still contains too much moisture.
• Season lightly and taste frequently. If you're making something like kale chips, use a light hand with salt and other seasonings, as they'll become more concentrated as you go.

Commonly Asked Questions

How does a food dehydrator work?

A food dehydrator operates by using gentle heat and a circulating fan to draw out moisture from the food. This process results in products that have a longer shelf life. The best part is that while the moisture evaporates, the food's flavors remain intact, making dehydrated foods incredibly concentrated and flavorful in a compact form.

What foods can I dehydrate?

You can dehydrate almost anything, from meats (such as beef jerky, turkey jerky, or smoked salmon) to vegetables (like beet chips, kale chips, and sun-dried tomatoes), and fruits (banana chips, apple chips, or fruit leather). You can even make treats for your pets, like dog biscuits, that are sure to be a hit with your furry companions. Since dehydrators remove moisture without adding heat, they're also popular among those who follow a raw food diet.

How long can dehydrated food be stored?

When properly dehydrated (with all moisture removed), dehydrated foods can last up to a year. If you vacuum-seal them after dehydration, they can last several years longer.

What’s the best way to store dehydrated food?

To maximize shelf life, keep all dehydrated food in airtight containers and store them in a cool, dark place. Always inspect the food before eating, and if you notice any mold or anything unusual, discard it immediately.

For foods that people still prefer to have a little chew to, like dried tomatoes, some people opt to store them in the freezer even after dehydrating. If fully dehydrated for shelf stability, they would become too brittle.

Must-Try Recipes

Take a look at these delicious recipes to kickstart your dehydrating journey right away.

Jerky Lover's Jerky — Sweet, Spicy, and Hot: "For fans of a sweet and spicy kick, this recipe is sure to become a favorite," says creator DIXYCHIK. "Perfect for family outings, sports games, camping, or hiking adventures. The secret ingredient? Pineapple juice, which brings all the flavors together perfectly."

Raw Cashew Cheesy Kale Chips: "This might just be the most irresistible healthy snack ever," says Amanda Nicole Smith, describing it as "crunchy, cheesy, and raw, yet vegan-friendly." She shares that once friends and family try the recipe, "they instantly fall in love... now they're making their own and sharing it back with me."

Doc's Best Beef Jerky: A crowd favorite, this jerky recipe is a must-try for jerky enthusiasts, campers, and hikers alike. Doc the WV Gourmet says, "I've been making jerky for years, and everyone who's tried this recipe claims it's the 'best jerky' they've ever tasted!"

Dehydrated Beet Chips: Crunchy and vibrant, these beet chips are a healthier alternative to traditional potato chips. "Experiment with different flavors—smoked bacon salt? sesame-tamari? The possibilities are endless," suggests cameal.

Apple Chips: "These delightful cinnamon apple chips will vanish almost as fast as you make them," says walkerkr. "They're a perfect healthy snack and convenient for on-the-go munching."

Sun-Dried Tomatoes II: If you’re swimming in produce, a dehydrator is a great way to capture the vibrant flavors for the colder months. "I toss a handful into soups or stews, and they taste like they were just picked," says Jim Lawler.

Peanut Butter Buckwheat Cereal: Who says cereal can't be reinvented? This simple four-ingredient recipe is not only delicious but also low in fructose and FODMAPs (Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides, and Polyols).

Cheesy Flax Crackers: Inspired by a childhood love for Cheez-Its, RachelRaw crafted a tangy, cheesy version where flaxseed and cashews replace traditional ingredients like flour, oil, or egg.