Dried Oranges: Air Fryer Magic In Minutes

Dried orange slices are a versatile treat that can be used for decoration, snacks, or to add a burst of flavour to your drinks and dishes. They are also incredibly easy to make in an air fryer, and much quicker than using an oven. In this article, we will be discussing how to make dried orange slices in an air fryer, the benefits of dried orange slices, and the different ways you can use them.

Selecting the right oranges

Freshness:

Choose oranges that are firm and heavy for their size, indicating they are juicy and ripe. Avoid oranges that feel too soft or have any signs of spoilage, such as mould or soft spots.

Skin Condition:

Look for oranges with smooth and unblemished skin. The skin should be free from any cuts, bruises, or discolouration. A smooth skin surface will ensure that your dried orange slices look appealing.

Variety:

Different varieties of oranges can be used for dehydration, each offering unique characteristics. Navel oranges, for example, are large, sweet, and seedless, making them a popular choice. Valencia oranges, also known as "juice" oranges, have thin skin and a sweet-tart flavour. Blood oranges have a distinctive crimson flesh and a unique flavour that is a mix of orange and hints of raspberry or cherry. Mandarin oranges, including tangerines and clementines, are smaller, sweeter, and have thinner skins.

Seasonality:

While oranges are available year-round, they are generally at their best during their peak season, which varies depending on the variety. Using oranges when they are in season will ensure the best flavour and quality for dehydration.

Thickness of Skin:

Opt for oranges with thin skin. Thinner-skinned oranges, such as Valencia oranges, will dry more evenly and efficiently in the air fryer.

Size:

Consider the size of the oranges in relation to your air fryer. If you have a smaller air fryer, choose smaller oranges, such as mandarin oranges, to ensure they fit properly in the basket or tray.

Colour:

For decorative purposes, you may want to choose oranges with bright, vibrant colours. Blood oranges, for example, offer a unique crimson colour that can add visual appeal to your dried orange slices.

Taste:

Finally, consider your preferred taste. If you like sweeter dried fruit, choose oranges that are known for their sweetness, such as navel oranges. If you prefer a slightly tart flavour, Valencias or other "juice" oranges might be a better option.

Remember to wash the oranges thoroughly before slicing and drying them in your air fryer. Enjoy experimenting with different varieties of oranges to find the ones that work best for your specific needs and taste preferences!

Preparing the oranges for dehydration

Firstly, select the right oranges for dehydration. Look for oranges that are firm, heavy for their size, and have unblemished, smooth skin. Navel oranges are a popular choice due to their sweetness and thick skin, which makes them easy to slice.

Before slicing, wash the oranges thoroughly to remove any dirt, residue, or pesticides. You can use a mix of regular oranges and blood oranges for added colour variety. Aim for slices that are less than half an inch thick, or between 1/4" and 1/8" thick. The thinner the slices, the faster they will dehydrate. Use a sharp, serrated knife or a mandolin slicer to cut consistent, thin slices.

If you want to prevent browning and preserve the colour of the oranges, you can consider dipping the slices in a lemon juice and water solution before drying. This step is optional but can help maintain the vibrant colour of the oranges.

Once sliced, gently pat the orange slices with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, especially if the oranges are very juicy. This step will help ensure even dehydration and prevent sogginess.

Finally, arrange the orange slices in a single layer on the air fryer racks or basket. Ensure that the slices do not overlap and that there is proper air circulation. If necessary, work in batches to allow adequate space for proper drying.

Now your oranges are ready for dehydration in your air fryer!

Setting up the air fryer

Before you begin, ensure your oranges are washed and dried. You can use a variety of oranges, such as navel oranges, Valencias, blood oranges, or mandarins. If you want to prevent browning and preserve the colour, you can dip the orange slices in a solution of lemon juice and water.

Using a sharp, serrated knife or a mandolin slicer, cut the oranges into thin, even slices. The recommended thickness varies between 1/4 inch to 1/8 inch. The thinner the slices, the faster they will dehydrate. Aim for consistent thickness to ensure even drying.

Place the orange slices on a wire rack or parchment paper inside the air fryer basket. Ensure the slices are in a single layer and do not overlap to allow for proper air circulation. If necessary, work in batches. If your oranges are very juicy, you can pat them with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

Preheat the air fryer to its lowest temperature, ideally around 165°F to 180°F (75°C to 80°C). If your air fryer has a dehydrate setting, select that mode. Otherwise, use the lowest temperature setting available.

Dehydrating the oranges

Dehydrating oranges in an air fryer is a simple process, but it requires some preparation and a few hours of your time. Here's a step-by-step guide to achieving the best results:

Slice the Oranges:

Start by washing your oranges thoroughly. Before slicing, ensure the oranges are dry. You can use a sharp, serrated knife or a mandoline slicer to cut the oranges. Aim for thin, even slices, preferably less than half an inch thick. The recommended thickness ranges from 1/4" to 1/8" (approximately 3-5mm). Thinner slices will reduce the dehydration time. It's important to note that the slices should be of similar thickness to ensure even drying.

Pre-Treatment (Optional):

To maintain the vibrant colour of your oranges and prevent browning, you can optionally dip the slices in a solution of lemon juice and water before drying. This step is not mandatory but can help enhance the visual appeal of your dried oranges.

Arrange the Slices in the Air Fryer:

Place the orange slices in a single layer on the air fryer basket or rack. Ensure the slices do not overlap and that there is adequate space between them for proper air circulation. If your air fryer basket has multiple shelves, you can utilise them to fit more slices at once. If necessary, work in batches to ensure optimal drying conditions.

Set the Temperature and Timing:

Set your air fryer to its lowest temperature setting. The ideal temperature for dehydrating oranges is around 165°F to 180°F (75°C to 80°C). The dehydration process will take approximately 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes. However, it's important to monitor the slices and adjust the timing as needed.

Flip the Slices:

During the dehydration process, it's a good idea to flip the orange slices halfway through. This ensures even drying and prevents any sticking or burning. Simply remove the air fryer basket, gently flip each slice, and return the basket to the air fryer to continue the process.

Check for Doneness:

After the initial dehydration period, check the orange slices. They should be dry and slightly pliable. If they still feel moist, return them to the air fryer and continue dehydrating in 30-minute intervals until fully dry.

Cooling and Storage:

Once the orange slices are done, remove them from the air fryer and allow them to cool completely. Place the dehydrated orange slices in an airtight container, such as a glass jar or another suitable storage container. You can also add a piece of paper towel to the container to absorb any residual moisture. Store the dried oranges in a cool, dry place, and they will last for years!

Storing the dehydrated oranges

Containers and Packaging:

Use airtight containers, preferably glass jars, to store the dehydrated orange slices. Mason jars are an excellent option and will keep your oranges fresh for a long time. Vacuum sealing the jars is also a good idea if you plan to store them for an extended period. If you don't have glass jars, you can use zip-lock bags or traditional pantry containers, but make sure they are airtight.

Moisture Control:

Before placing the oranges in the containers, ensure they are completely dry and cool. Check for any signs of moisture or condensation. If you notice moisture, return the oranges to the air fryer or oven for further dehydration. You can also use a moisture-absorbing desiccant packet inside the container, especially if you live in a humid area.

Storage Conditions:

Store the containers in a cool, dry, and dark place. A pantry cabinet works well for this purpose. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources, as they can affect the quality of the dehydrated oranges over time.

Long-Term Storage:

Properly dehydrated and stored oranges can last for years. If you plan to store them for an extended period, consider conditioning them first. Loosely pack the oranges in a transparent airtight container and check daily for a week. Look for signs of moisture or condensation, and shake the container to prevent the slices from sticking together. If there are no issues, you can proceed with long-term storage.

Shelf Life:

The shelf life of dehydrated oranges depends on the storage conditions. Oranges stored in an airtight container in a dark pantry can last for at least a year. However, if stored in a zip-lock bag in a warmer pantry, the shelf life may be reduced to 2-3 months.

Food Safety:

Always use clean utensils and equipment when handling dehydrated oranges to prevent contamination. Wash your hands and sanitize your countertops before prepping the oranges. Additionally, if you notice any mould on the oranges, discard the entire batch.

Frequently asked questions