Dehydrating Oranges In An Air Fryer: A Quick Guide

Dehydrating oranges in an air fryer is a great way to preserve them for later use. It's a simple process that can be done without a dehydrator and will result in a delicious and healthy snack. Dehydrated oranges can be used in a variety of ways, such as a garnish for cocktails or desserts, a topping for yogurt or ice cream, or even as a seasoning for savoury dishes. They can also be used for decoration, adding a pop of colour to your home or Christmas tree.

How to dehydrate oranges in an air fryer

Dehydrating oranges in an air fryer is a great way to preserve them for later use. You can make orange leather, or you can simply dehydrate the peels and save them in a jar. The longer they dry, the more intense the citrus flavor will be. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to dehydrate oranges in an air fryer:

Step 1: Prepare the Oranges

Start by washing and drying your oranges. It is important that the oranges are completely dry before you place them in the air fryer.

Step 2: Slice the Oranges

Use a sharp knife or a mandoline to cut the oranges into thin, even slices. The recommended thickness is around 1/4-inch to 1/8-inch slices. The thinner the slices, the faster they will dehydrate.

Step 3: Line the Air Fryer Basket

Cover the base of the air fryer basket with parchment paper. This will help prevent the orange slices from sticking to the basket.

Step 4: Arrange the Orange Slices

Place the orange slices in a single layer on the parchment paper. Make sure they are not overcrowded, as this can affect the air circulation and result in uneven drying. If needed, work in batches to ensure each slice has enough space.

Step 5: Dehydrate the Oranges

Set the temperature of your air fryer to between 120°F and 180°F. The ideal temperature may vary depending on your specific air fryer model, so refer to the instruction manual if possible. Cook the orange slices for 1 to 2.5 hours, flipping them every 30 minutes to ensure even drying. The total cooking time will depend on the thickness of your slices and the temperature of your air fryer.

Step 6: Check for Doneness

Remove the orange slices from the air fryer when they are fully dried. They should not feel sticky or glossy. Let the slices cool for about ten minutes before testing them, as they will continue to harden as they cool.

Step 7: Store the Dehydrated Oranges

Once the orange slices are fully cooled, you can store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Properly stored dehydrated oranges can last for several weeks or even years.

The benefits of using an air fryer

Air fryers have become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. Here are some of the benefits of using an air fryer:

Healthier Option

One of the main benefits of using an air fryer is that it is a healthier alternative to deep frying. Air fryers require far less oil than deep fryers, resulting in meals that contain lower amounts of fat and calories. The convection process used by air fryers also promotes the Maillard reaction, which browns the food and makes it tastier, even with less fat. This makes air fryers perfect for creating crispy French fries, onion rings, fish sticks, and other traditionally fried foods.

Ease of Use and Speed

Air fryers are very easy to use and require minimal monitoring during cooking. You simply set the temperature and time, place the food inside, and let the air fryer do the rest. They also cook much faster than traditional methods due to the intense heat that is constantly circulated inside the fryer. Many models also have a short preheat time or don't require preheating at all, further reducing cooking time.

Versatility

Air fryers can cook a wide variety of foods, including vegetables, meats, baked goods, and even desserts. They can also be used to reheat leftovers, such as pizza, grilled cheese, and chicken tenders, without making them soggy like a microwave might. Air fryers are also relatively small and easily transportable, making them a convenient option for small kitchens, camping trips, or travel.

Cost-Effective and Energy Efficient

Air fryers are surprisingly inexpensive, typically ranging in price from $50 to $150. They are also more energy-efficient than most cooking devices, as they prevent heat from escaping and cook faster, resulting in lower electricity usage. The reduced amount of oil required for cooking also means less waste, which is better for the environment.

How to prepare oranges for dehydration

Preparing oranges for dehydration is a simple process, but there are a few key steps to ensure the best results. Here is a detailed guide on how to prepare oranges for dehydration:

Select the Right Oranges:

Choose oranges that are firm, seedless, and have thin skin. Navel oranges are a popular choice as they are sweet and juicy. Blood oranges are also a great option, especially if you want a more vibrant colour.

Slice the Oranges:

• Using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer, cut the oranges into thin, even slices. The recommended thickness is between 1/8" to 1/4" (3-5 mm). Thinner slices will take less time to dehydrate and are less likely to have a bitter taste.
• If using a knife, aim for uniform slices to ensure even cooking. A mandoline slicer will give you more consistent results.
• Place the orange slices on a paper towel and gently pat them with another paper towel to remove excess moisture. This step is important to reduce the overall drying time.

Prepare the Air Fryer:

• Line the base of the air fryer basket with parchment paper. This will prevent the oranges from sticking to the basket.
• If you don't have parchment paper, you can place a wire cooling rack inside a large baking tray and arrange the orange slices on top. The rack allows for better air circulation.

Arrange the Oranges:

Place the orange slices in a single layer on the parchment paper or wire rack. Make sure they are not overcrowded to ensure proper air circulation. Work in batches if needed.

Add Seasonings (Optional):

Before placing the oranges in the air fryer, you can sprinkle them with spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or ground cloves. You can also add a little granulated or brown sugar to create candied orange slices.

With these steps, your oranges are now prepared and ready for dehydration in your air fryer!

How long to dehydrate oranges for

The time it takes to dehydrate oranges in an air fryer depends on the thickness of the orange slices and the specific model of the air fryer. The thinner the slices, the quicker they will dehydrate. Most sources recommend a thickness of 1/4 to 1/8 inches.

It is important to note that the dehydration time also depends on the desired consistency of the dehydrated oranges. For a softer texture, dehydrate for a shorter period, and for a drier texture, dehydrate for a longer period.

• 12 to 15 hours at 120°F
• 5 to 7 hours at 135°F (57°C)
• 3 hours at 55°C/130°F
• 1 hour at 100°C/212°F, with slices turned after 25 minutes
• 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes at 180°F (80°C)
• 3 to 4 hours at 175°F (80°C)

It is worth noting that some air fryers have a built-in dehydrate function, which makes the process even easier. However, not all air fryers have this setting, so it is important to check the specific model before attempting to dehydrate oranges.

What to do with dehydrated oranges

Dehydrated oranges are versatile and can be used in a variety of ways, including:

Food and Drink

• Add them to tea for extra flavour.
• Eat them as a healthy snack—they're sweet and crisp with a citrus punch.
• Dip them in chocolate for a fun snack.
• Use them as a garnish for cocktails, cakes, cupcakes, desserts, or savoury dishes.
• Add them to marinades in place of fresh citrus slices.
• Sprinkle them over vanilla ice cream or yogurt for a zing of citrus.
• Crumble them into mulling spice mix.
• Use them as a gluten-free cracker on a charcuterie board.
• Make an orange oil cleaner with alcohol and tincturing methods.
• Add them to hot toddies with cinnamon sticks and other spices.
• Use them in dry rubs for chicken and pork when ground into a powder with salt and chilli.
• Add them to stews or soups for a burst of citrus.
• Make candied orange slices by boiling them in a simple syrup.

Decorations

• Create a garland or wreath for the festive season.
• Use them as gift wrap embellishments—dried oranges look gorgeous with brown paper packaging.
• Make greeting cards using orange slices or dried orange peel shapes as part of a collage.
• Place them in a bowl as potpourri or use in a simmer pot for fragrance.
• Hang them as Christmas tree ornaments or decorate a Christmas tree with a garland.
• Add them to candle decorations, although be cautious as they contain oils and may be a fire hazard.

Frequently asked questions