Air Fryer Hack: Drying Chillies Quickly And Efficiently

Drying chillies is a great way to preserve and enhance their rich flavours. It is a process that has been used for centuries, with ancient civilisations laying the foundation for air drying by utilising the sun and air to dry their chillies. Today, there are many methods to dry chillies, including using an air fryer.

Air fryers circulate hot air around the chillies, aiding the drying process. However, it is important to note that the lowest temperature setting should be used, and the chillies must be checked frequently to ensure they are not burning. While it may not be the most energy-efficient method for drying large quantities, it can be a handy tool for drying a small batch quickly.

Air fryer temperature settings for drying chillies

Yes, you can dry chillies in an air fryer, but there are a few things to keep in mind.

Firstly, it is important to set your air fryer to the lowest temperature setting available. This will ensure that the chillies dry out without burning. Additionally, you should check on the chillies frequently to make sure they are not getting too hot. It is also important to space them out to ensure even drying.

The time it takes to dry chillies in an air fryer will depend on the size and moisture content of the chillies, as well as the specific air fryer model and temperature setting used. However, in general, it is recommended to dry chillies in an air fryer for around one hour. For example, one source recommends drying chillies at 80°C for about one hour, depending on their size.

Using an air fryer to dry chillies can be a convenient option if you are short on time or want to dry a small batch of chillies quickly. However, it may not be the most energy-efficient method for drying large quantities, and it may not impart the same traditional flavour as other drying methods.

How to prepare chillies for the air fryer

Preparing chillies for the air fryer is a simple process, but it requires patience and vigilance to achieve the best results. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to prepare chillies for the air fryer:

Step 1: Selecting the Chillies

Choose small, firm chillies with long green stalks. The size is important, as larger chillies can take a longer time to dry in an air fryer. Look for chillies that are no more than 4-7 cm long (excluding the stalk) and have a width of less than 1.5 cm.

Step 2: Preparing the Chillies

Before placing the chillies in the air fryer, rinse them and dry them off. Cut out any bad spots or blemishes on the chillies. You can also cut the chillies in half to speed up the drying process, or slice them into smaller pieces if you want to dry them even faster. You can decide whether to remove the seeds or leave them in, depending on your preference.

Step 3: Arranging the Chillies in the Air Fryer

Place the prepared chillies on the air fryer basket. Make sure to space them out evenly to ensure proper air circulation and uniform drying. Do not overlap the chillies.

Step 4: Setting the Temperature and Time

Set the air fryer to its lowest temperature setting. The ideal temperature for drying chillies is around 80°C or lower. The drying time will depend on the size of the chillies and the temperature setting of your air fryer. For whole chillies, the drying process can take around 5-8 hours, while sliced chillies may take 20-40 minutes.

Step 5: Monitoring the Drying Process

Check on the chillies frequently, ideally every 30 minutes, to ensure they are drying properly and not burning. Remove any chillies that are dry and continue drying the rest. The chillies are fully dry when they crack upon bending.

Step 6: Conditioning the Dried Chillies

Once the chillies are fully dried, let them cool down to room temperature. Place the dehydrated chillies in a glass mason jar and store them in a dark area. Shake the jar daily for 7-10 days to break up any stuck pieces. This step is crucial to ensure that the chillies are thoroughly dry and to prevent moisture buildup, which can ruin the batch.

Step 7: Storing the Dried Chillies

After conditioning, you can store the dried chillies in airtight containers or resealable plastic bags. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. Label the containers with the type of chilli and the date of drying. Store the containers in a cool, dry, and dark place to preserve the colour, flavour, and heat of the chillies.

By following these steps, you will be able to successfully prepare and dry chillies in your air fryer, resulting in a delicious and versatile ingredient for your culinary creations.

How long it takes to dry chillies in an air fryer

Yes, you can dry chillies in an air fryer. The length of time it takes depends on the size of the chillies and the temperature setting of the air fryer.

To dry chillies in an air fryer, first, wash and thoroughly dry the chillies. Wear gloves when handling the chillies and slice off the stems. You can slice the chillies in half or leave them whole, depending on their size. If your air fryer basket is prone to sticking, line it with parchment paper. Place the chillies in the basket, skin-side up, being careful not to overcrowd them.

Set the temperature to between 80°C and 176°F. The chillies will take between four and twelve hours to dry completely. Check the chillies frequently to ensure they are not burning. You will know they are done when they are completely dried out and crisp.

Once dried, you can use a coffee grinder to grind the chillies into flakes or powder. Allow the grinder to rest for one to two minutes before removing the lid. Store the chilli flakes or powder in a labelled jar.

How to store dried chillies

Dried chillies can last for several months or even a year, but only if stored correctly. To preserve their colour, flavour, and heat for longer, dried chillies should be stored in a cool, dark, and dry place.

Airtight containers or resealable plastic bags are ideal for storing dried chillies. Before sealing, remove as much air as possible from the bag. Vacuum sealing is an excellent option for those planning long-term storage. Opaque containers are best, but if you only have clear containers, store them in a dark place, away from direct sunlight.

Mason jars are a good option for storing dried chillies, especially if you plan to store them in a cool, dark basement. Freezing dried chillies in freezer bags can also help them last indefinitely with little change in quality.

It's important to ensure your dried chillies are completely dry before storing. Moisture can cause mould and spoilage. Chillies should be pliable, not hard, and should soften completely when rehydrated.

Other methods for drying chillies

Yes, you can dry chillies in an air fryer, but it's important to keep a few things in mind. Firstly, use the lowest temperature setting available on your air fryer. Check the chillies frequently to ensure they are not burning, and space them out to ensure even drying. While it is feasible to use an air fryer, it may not be the most energy-efficient method for drying large quantities.

Traditional Sun Drying

Spread chillies out on mats or raised platforms in a warm, dry, and well-ventilated area, ensuring they do not overlap. Turning them occasionally will ensure even sun exposure. This method demands consistent sunshine and low humidity to prevent mould formation. Using netted covers will protect them from birds or insects.

Oven Drying

Place chillies on a baking tray in a single layer without touching. The oven should be set to its lowest temperature, and the chillies should be turned every hour or so to prevent sticking and to even out the heat. Leaving the oven door slightly ajar will increase airflow but ensure your kitchen is well-ventilated to disperse the vapours. Oven drying typically takes between four hours and overnight.

Air Drying

Thread chillies through their stems and hang them in bunches in a dry, airy, and warm place, such as a covered balcony or passageway. Direct sun will speed up the process but may impair the flavour. Turning the chillies occasionally will ensure even drying. This method usually takes a few days to a week.

Electric Dehydrating

Food dehydrators are designed to remove moisture from chillies, offering a sure-fire way to dry them. Simply slice the chillies into small chunks, put them in the dehydrator, and wait until they are dry. This method produces the same results as the previous ones but may not be the most cost-effective option unless you plan to dry chillies and other vegetables regularly.

Microwave Drying

For small batches, microwaves offer a rapid solution. Place chillies on a plate and use reduced power settings to quickly evaporate moisture. However, this method requires caution as there is a fine line between drying and scorching. Monitor closely and turn chillies at regular intervals.

Frequently asked questions