Dehydrating Oranges: Air Fryer Magic

Dehydrated orange slices are a versatile treat that can be used for cooking, baking, and drinks. They can also be used for decorative purposes, such as garlands or potpourri. In this article, we will be discussing how to make dehydrated orange slices using an air fryer.

Selecting the right oranges

Choose the Right Variety:

• Navel oranges are a great choice due to their large size, sweetness, and thick skin, which makes them easy to slice and handle. They are also seedless, making them ideal for dehydration.
• Valencia oranges, also known as "juice" oranges, have thin skin, are very juicy, and offer a sweet-tart flavor. They are perfect if you prefer a slightly tart flavor in your dried fruit.
• Blood oranges are smaller and have a unique crimson flesh with hints of raspberry or cherry flavor. They are excellent for decorative purposes or as a gourmet snack due to their striking color and flavor.
• Mandarin oranges, including tangerines and clementines, are smaller, sweeter, and have thinner skins than other varieties. They are perfect for snacking or decorative arrangements.

Look for Freshness:

Select oranges that are firm and heavy for their size, indicating good juice content. Avoid oranges with soft spots or any signs of mold.

Consider Seasonality:

While oranges are available year-round, they are generally at their best during their peak season, which varies depending on the variety. Try to choose oranges that are in season for the best flavor and quality.

Inspect the Skin:

Look for oranges with unblemished, smooth skin. Avoid any oranges with visible bruises, scratches, or other damage.

Size and Quantity:

Consider the size of your oranges and how many you will need. For a tightly packed garland, you may need four to five oranges, while one or two oranges may be enough for smaller projects or ornaments.

By following these tips and choosing the right oranges, you can ensure that your dehydrated orange slices turn out tasty and visually appealing. Remember to wash and dry your oranges thoroughly before slicing and dehydrating them.

Preparing oranges for dehydration

Firstly, select the right type of oranges. Choose oranges that are firm, heavy for their size, and have unblemished, smooth skin. This indicates good juice content and freshness. The variety of orange you choose is also important. Navel oranges, for instance, are large, sweet, and have thick skin, making them ideal for slicing and dehydration. Valencia oranges, also known as "juice" oranges, have a thin skin and a sweet-tart flavor, making them perfect if you prefer a slightly tarter taste.

Once you've selected your oranges, it's time to wash them thoroughly to remove any dirt, residue, or pesticides. After washing, dry the oranges with a clean towel or let them air dry completely. This step is crucial as any remaining moisture can affect the dehydration process.

Now, it's time to slice the oranges. Using a sharp, serrated knife or a mandoline slicer, cut the oranges into thin, consistent slices. Aim for a thickness between 1/4" and 1/8". It's important to have evenly sized slices to ensure uniform dehydration. You may also want to cut more oranges than you need, as you can discard any broken pieces or ends.

After slicing, if you plan to use the dehydrated oranges for decorative purposes or want to prevent browning, you can optionally dip the slices in a lemon juice and water solution. This step will help preserve the color and make your dried oranges more aesthetically pleasing.

Finally, if you're not planning to dehydrate the oranges immediately, you can store the sliced oranges in an air fryer oven or simply leave them in the air fryer basket ready for dehydration later. This gives you the flexibility to prepare the oranges in advance if you're short on time.

By following these steps, you'll have perfectly prepared oranges ready for dehydration in your air fryer!

Dehydrating the oranges

Preparation

Wash your oranges and dry them thoroughly. If you plan to eat the dehydrated oranges or use them in food, it is especially important to wash the oranges to remove any dirt or residue.

Slicing

Using a sharp, serrated knife or a mandoline slicer, cut the oranges into thin slices, around 1/4-inch to 1/8-inch thick. The slices should be consistent in thickness to ensure even dehydration. You may also want to cut more slices than you need, as you can discard any broken pieces or ends.

Air fryer setup

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

Dehydrating

Place the orange slices in a single layer on the parchment paper, ensuring they do not overlap. Set your air fryer to its lowest temperature setting, ideally between 130°F and 180°F. Dehydrate the orange slices for 1 to 3 hours, checking periodically and flipping the slices every 30 minutes to ensure even dehydration. The oranges are ready when they are dry and slightly pliable.

Post-dehydration

Remove the dehydrated orange slices from the air fryer and allow them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container.

Troubleshooting

If your dried orange slices are tacky, it means they haven't fully dehydrated. Place them back in the air fryer at 165°F (75°C) and continue dehydrating for 30 minutes to 1 hour, checking periodically. Ensure the slices are in a single layer for proper air circulation.

Storing dehydrated oranges

Once you've made your dehydrated oranges, you'll want to store them properly to ensure they last a long time. Here are some detailed instructions on how to do that:

Firstly, it is important to let the oranges cool down completely to room temperature. This is important because if you store them while they are still warm, condensation can build up in the storage container, potentially leading to mould.

Secondly, make sure that all moisture has been removed from the oranges. They should be completely dry and not feel tacky or sticky to the touch. If they are still moist, return them to the air fryer or oven and dehydrate for a little longer.

Thirdly, choose an appropriate storage container. It is recommended to use an airtight container with a tight-fitting lid, such as a glass jar (e.g. a mason jar) or a Ziploc bag. This will ensure that no moisture can get in and that the oranges remain dry.

Finally, store the container in a cool, dry place, such as a cabinet or pantry out of direct sunlight. You can also store them in the fridge if you want them to last even longer. Check the oranges occasionally for the first couple of weeks to make sure they are not getting soft or mouldy. If stored correctly, dehydrated oranges can last for years.

Using dehydrated oranges

Dehydrated oranges are a versatile treat to have on hand. They can be used in a variety of ways, from snacks to decorations, and even as a natural air freshener. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Snacks

• Dip them in chocolate for a sweet treat. You can even sprinkle some sea salt on top!
• Eat them plain as a healthy snack.
• Make orange chips by drizzling honey over the slices and spraying them with extra virgin olive oil before air frying.

Drinks

• Add dehydrated orange slices to tea for extra flavour.
• Use them as a garnish for cocktails, mocktails, or any other drink.
• Float them in punch or sangria.

Decorations

• Create a garland by threading the slices onto a string and hanging them up.
• Make a wreath by gluing the slices to a base.
• Place them in a bowl and use them as natural potpourri.
• Decorate gifts, candles, or gift baskets with them.

Food

• Add dehydrated orange slices to cakes, cupcakes, or charcuterie boards as a garnish.
• Use them as a gluten-free cracker.
• Dip them in chocolate and sprinkle with sea salt for a fun snack or dessert.
• Crumble them into mulling spice mixes or oatmeal.
• Grind them into a powder and use as a citrus rub for meats or fish.
• Add them to stews, soups, granola, or smoothies for a hint of citrus.

Frequently asked questions