Air Fryer Tomato Drying: A Quick Guide

Air fryers can be used to dry tomatoes, creating a tasty treat that can be stored and used at a later date. The process is simple and can be done in batches, making it a great way to preserve a large quantity of tomatoes. The air fryer replicates the warmth of the summer breeze, drying the tomatoes and creating a roasted flavour. The drying process can be customised to your preference, with options to create a smoky char on the tomatoes or to leave them tender and juicy.

How to prepare tomatoes for air frying

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

Selecting the Tomatoes:

• Choose ripe, good-quality tomatoes for the best flavour.
• Smaller tomato varieties such as cherry, grape, or plum tomatoes are ideal due to their lower water content and faster drying time.
• If using larger tomatoes like heirlooms, cut them into slices or quarters to reduce the drying time.
• Ensure the tomatoes are free from any splits or blemishes, as bacteria may affect the batch during storage.

Seasoning the Tomatoes:

• Place the tomatoes in a bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Use a good-quality oil, as its fruity flavour will enhance the tomatoes.
• Add your choice of seasoning. Italian seasoning (a blend of basil, oregano, and garlic powder) is a popular option, but you can also use salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, or dried rosemary to taste.
• Stir or toss the tomatoes gently until they are evenly coated with oil and seasoning.

Arranging the Tomatoes in the Air Fryer:

• Preheat your air fryer to around 115-140°C (240-280°F). The ideal temperature may vary depending on your air fryer model.
• Place the seasoned tomatoes in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer and not overlapping.
• For smaller tomatoes, arrange them cut-side up. For larger tomatoes, place them skin-side down to minimise juice leakage and maximise flavour concentration.

Air Frying the Tomatoes:

• Air fry the tomatoes for 30-45 minutes, then turn them over and cook for an additional 30-45 minutes. The exact time will depend on the size and water content of the tomatoes and your air fryer's efficiency.
• Check on the tomatoes regularly to prevent overcooking or burning. You want them to be roasted and concentrated in flavour, but not completely dehydrated.
• If desired, you can air fry at a high temperature (around 200°C/390°F) for a few minutes to give the tomatoes a smoky char.

Storing the Air-Fried Tomatoes:

• Allow the tomatoes to cool before storing.
• You can store the air-fried tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or freeze them for later use.
• For longer-term storage, consider vacuum sealing or preserving them in olive oil. Sun-dried tomatoes stored in olive oil can be kept in the refrigerator for up to six months, imparting flavour to the oil, which can also be used in cooking.

By following these steps, you'll be able to prepare delicious air-fried tomatoes that can be enjoyed as a snack or used in various recipes, such as salads, sandwiches, soups, or pasta dishes.

Air fryer temperature and timing

The temperature and timing for drying tomatoes in an air fryer depend on the type of air fryer you have, the size of the tomatoes, and their water content.

For a drawer-style air fryer, set the temperature to 120°C (250°F) and cook the tomatoes for 40 minutes. For an oven-style air fryer, use the same temperature but increase the cooking time to 60 minutes. If you are using an oven-style air fryer, you can make a larger batch of sun-dried tomatoes by taking advantage of the three shelves.

If your air fryer has a dehydrate setting, you can cook tomatoes at 190°F (88°C) for three hours.

For a crispier texture, you can cook the tomatoes at 240°F (115°C) for 45 minutes. Then, smash the tomatoes and air fry for an additional 30 minutes.

If you want to add a smoky char to your tomatoes, cook them at 390°F (200°C) for 5-6 minutes after the initial cooking.

Storing sun-dried tomatoes

Firstly, always let the tomatoes cool completely before storing them. You can then place them in an airtight container or glass jar. Cover the tomatoes with additional oil and seal the container or jar tightly. This method will keep your sun-dried tomatoes fresh for up to 3 weeks in the refrigerator.

If you want to store them for longer, you can freeze them. First, let the tomatoes freeze on a baking sheet for 2 hours. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them in the freezer for at least a year.

Another option is to vacuum seal the sun-dried tomatoes. This method will keep them fresh for up to a year at room temperature or longer if refrigerated or frozen.

If you don't want to use oil, you can store the sun-dried tomatoes without it. Simply place them in an airtight container and store them in a cool, dark place for 6-9 months. You can also store them in the refrigerator or freezer for up to a year.

Choosing the right tomatoes for air frying

Type of Tomatoes

You can use various types of tomatoes for air frying, such as cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes, plum tomatoes, beefsteak tomatoes, Roma tomatoes, or even heirloom tomatoes. Smaller tomatoes like cherry or grape tomatoes are ideal as they cook faster and have a sweeter flavour. However, larger tomatoes like Roma or beefsteak tomatoes can also be used, but it is recommended to cut them into smaller pieces or slices before air frying.

Quality and Ripeness

Always choose ripe, fresh, and high-quality tomatoes for air frying. Avoid tomatoes with splits or blemishes, as bacteria may have entered through any breaks in the skin. Tomatoes that are too ripe or overripe may also have a higher water content, making them more challenging to dry properly.

Fleshiness and Seeds

When selecting tomatoes for air frying, look for fleshy varieties with fewer seeds. Tomatoes with a lot of water content can be more difficult to dry, so choosing fleshy tomatoes will help ensure better results. If the tomatoes have a lot of seeds, you may want to remove them before air frying.

Colour

Don't be afraid to experiment with different colours of tomatoes, such as red, green, yellow, or purple. Green tomatoes, for example, have a unique flavour and can add an interesting twist to your dish. Mixing different colours of tomatoes in your air fryer can also create a vibrant and visually appealing dish.

Storage

When choosing tomatoes for air frying, consider how you plan to store them. Fresh tomatoes should be stored at room temperature, as cold temperatures can negatively affect their texture. If you plan to store the tomatoes before air frying, store them stem-down to prevent moisture loss and mould growth around the stem.

In summary, when choosing the right tomatoes for air frying, opt for ripe, fleshy, smaller varieties like cherry or grape tomatoes. Avoid tomatoes with blemishes, and consider the colour and storage conditions to ensure the best results for your dried tomato creations.

Air fryer vs. traditional oven

Air fryers are a great alternative to traditional ovens, offering speed, convenience, and versatility. Here are some key differences between the two:

• Speed and Efficiency: Air fryers are known for their quick cooking times, especially when it comes to drying foods like tomatoes. While a traditional oven may take several hours to dry tomatoes, an air fryer can achieve similar results in half the time or even less. This efficiency makes it ideal for those who want to preserve seasonal produce quickly and conveniently.
• Temperature Control: Air fryers typically have a temperature range that allows for precise control. This feature is advantageous when drying tomatoes, as you can set the temperature to a specific level, such as 240°F (115°C) or lower, to achieve the desired level of dehydration without burning. Traditional ovens may not offer the same level of temperature precision.
• Circulation of Heat: Air fryers use a powerful fan to circulate hot air, resulting in even cooking and browning. This intense heat circulation is what gives food its crispy texture, similar to frying but with less fat. In contrast, traditional ovens rely on static heat, which may require more frequent rotation of food items to ensure even cooking.
• Energy Consumption: Air fryers are generally more energy-efficient than traditional ovens. They heat up faster and use less energy overall, making them a more cost-effective option for cooking or drying small batches of food. This efficiency is especially noticeable when preparing a small number of tomatoes or other similar ingredients.
• Versatility: Air fryers offer a wide range of cooking options beyond just frying. They can be used for roasting, baking, and even dehydrating, as in the case of sun-dried tomatoes. Traditional ovens, while versatile in their own right, may not be as well-suited for certain specific tasks like dehydrating foods.
• Space and Size: Air fryers are typically more compact and take up less counter or storage space than a traditional oven. This makes them ideal for small kitchens, apartments, or even RVs. Additionally, their smaller size means they can preheat faster, further contributing to their energy efficiency.

While traditional ovens have their place in the kitchen, air fryers offer a convenient, efficient, and versatile alternative for various tasks, including drying tomatoes. Air fryers combine speed, precision, and energy efficiency, making them a popular choice for those seeking to prepare delicious dishes with minimal fuss.

Frequently asked questions