I love cooking with chillies. They add a beautiful kick of heat to any dish and can really elevate the flavors. But sometimes, I find myself with an abundance of chillies that I need to preserve before they go bad. That’s when I discovered a quick and easy method to dry chillies in the microwave. In this article, I will share with you my step-by-step guide on how to dry chillies using this method.
Gather your ingredients and materials
Before you begin, make sure you have everything you need. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
- Chillies
- A microwave-safe plate or tray
- Plastic wrap or a microwave-safe lid
- A sharp knife
Step 1: Choose the right chillies
When selecting chillies to dry, it’s important to choose ones that are fully mature. The color of the chilli should be vibrant and the skin should be firm. Avoid selecting chillies that are soft or have any signs of rot. I usually go for red chillies as they tend to have more flavor, but you can use any variety you prefer.
Step 2: Wash and dry the chillies
Give the chillies a thorough wash under running water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. It’s important to ensure the chillies are completely dry before moving on to the next step.
Step 3: Prepare the chillies for drying
Using a sharp knife, carefully remove the stems from each chilli. You can choose to leave the chillies whole or slice them into smaller pieces if you prefer. Slicing the chillies will help them dry faster, but it’s entirely up to you.
Step 4: Arrange the chillies on a microwave-safe plate or tray
Place the chillies in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate or tray. Make sure there is enough space between each chilli to allow for even airflow. If necessary, you can use multiple plates or trays to accommodate all the chillies.
Step 5: Cover the chillies
Cover the plate or tray with plastic wrap or a microwave-safe lid. This will help trap the heat and moisture, allowing the chillies to dry more efficiently. Make sure the cover is secure to prevent any steam from escaping.
Step 6: Microwave in short bursts
Place the plate or tray with the covered chillies in the microwave. Set the microwave to a low power setting, such as 30% or 40% power. Microwave the chillies in short bursts of 30 seconds to 1 minute, depending on the wattage of your microwave.
Step 7: Check the chillies
After each burst, carefully remove the plate or tray from the microwave and check the chillies. They should start to look dehydrated and shriveled. If they are still moist, return them to the microwave and continue microwaving in short bursts until they are completely dry.
Step 8: Cool and store the dried chillies
Once the chillies are dry, remove them from the microwave and allow them to cool completely. This will help them become even more crispy. Once cooled, transfer the dried chillies to an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. Store them in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight.
Conclusion
Drying chillies in the microwave is a quick and easy method that allows you to preserve your chillies before they spoil. With just a few simple steps, you can have a stash of dried chillies ready to be used in your favorite dishes. So, the next time you find yourself with an abundance of chillies, give this method a try and enjoy the flavorful heat of dried chillies all year round!