Dehydrate Citrus Slices - Benefits, Uses and How to Dehydrate

Dehydrated citrus slices are popular now. You can find stunning photos of them on Instagram and citrus slices are for sale in shops and on-line. But why buy, when you can make them yourself? Before we get down to the instructions, have a read of the benefits and the uses of dehydrated citrus slices.

Benefits:

• Preservation: Dehydration removes moisture, preventing spoilage and extending the shelf life of citrus fruits for months or even years.   
• Flavour Concentration: The drying process intensifies the natural flavours of the citrus, resulting in a more potent and concentrated taste.
• Versatility: Dehydrated citrus slices can be used in various ways.

Uses:

Culinary Uses

• Our family loves eating dried citrus slices as is, straight from the airtight container.
• Add flavour to teas, infusions, and drinks. 
• Use as a garnish for desserts, salads, and savoury dishes.
• A slice makes a great addition to a G & T or a cocktail.
• We like adding them to non-alcoholic drinks to make them look really festive.
• As a sweet treat they are lovely half dipped in chocolate.
• They can be used to decorate cakes, slices and desserts.
• Incorporate into baking mixes, granola, and trail mixes.
• Grind into a powder for use as a spice or seasoning.

Decorative Purposes:

• Create beautiful and fragrant potpourri.
• Use as natural air fresheners or ornaments.
• Add a touch of elegance to wreaths, centrepieces, and other crafts.

Overall, dehydrating citrus slices is a practical and creative way to preserve and enjoy the unique flavours and aromas of these fruits.

Photo Above: Mulled wine with dehydrated orange.

How to Dehydrate:

Oven Drying: 

• Preheat your oven to the lowest setting (around 60°C).
• Spread the citrus slices on a baking sheet in a single layer
• Bake for 1-2 hours
• flip the slices occasionally, until completely dry and crisp.
• Place into an airtight container.

Air Drying: This method takes longer but preserves the most fragrance.

• Put the citrus slices on a wire rack or paper towel-lined baking sheet.
• Place in a well-ventilated, warm place out of direct sunlight.
• Let them dry for several days (3-5) or until completely brittle.
• Place into an airtight container.

Dehydrator: We prefer using a dehydrator as it is so easy.

• Place the citrus in single layers on each rack.
• Set temperature to 60 degrees Celsius
• Leave to dry for 2-5 hours depending on how thick you have sliced the fruit.

Place into an airtight container.

Photo Above: Citrus slices dehydrating in the oven.