Plums are juicy, sweet, and delicious fruits that can be enjoyed in various ways. One method of preserving plums and extending their shelf life is through dehydration. Dehydrating plums not only helps to maintain their nutritional value but also creates a tasty and convenient snack. If you have an air fryer at home, this quick and easy guide will teach you how to dehydrate plums using this versatile kitchen appliance.
Preparing the Plums
Gather the plums
To begin the process of dehydrating plums, you’ll need to gather ripe and fresh plums. Ensure that the plums are in good condition without any bruises or soft spots. It’s best to choose plums that are fully ripe but not overly ripe to achieve the perfect texture and flavor.
Wash and slice the plums
Before dehydrating, it’s crucial to wash the plums thoroughly. Rinse them under cool running water to remove any dirt or pesticides that may be present. Once cleaned, pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
Now, it’s time to slice the plums. Use a sharp knife to cut the plums into thin slices. Aim for slices that are about ¼ inch thick, as this thickness allows for even drying. Try to maintain uniformity in the thickness of the slices to ensure consistent drying.
Remove the pits
To dehydrate plums, you’ll need to remove the pits. The pits can be easily removed by making a small incision along the seam of the plum, cutting around the pit, and then gently twisting the plum halves in opposite directions. Alternatively, you can use a small knife or a cherry pitter to remove the pits.
Dehydrating Plums in an Air Fryer
Preheat the air fryer
Before placing the plum slices in the air fryer, it’s essential to preheat the appliance. Preheating the air fryer helps to ensure even and consistent drying. Set the air fryer to a temperature of around 135°F (57°C) and let it preheat for a few minutes.
Arrange the plum slices in a single layer
Once the air fryer is preheated, arrange the plum slices in a single layer on the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding the slices, as this can hinder proper air circulation and result in uneven drying. If needed, dehydrate the plums in multiple batches.
Set the timer and temperature
After placing the plum slices in the air fryer, set the timer and temperature according to the drying instructions for your specific air fryer model. Typically, plums should be dehydrated at a low temperature for several hours. Start with a temperature of around 135°F (57°C) and adjust as needed based on your desired level of dryness.
Flip the plum slices
During the dehydration process, it’s important to flip the plum slices occasionally to ensure uniform drying. Check on the plums every 1-2 hours and carefully flip them to allow both sides to dry evenly. This step is crucial for achieving a consistent texture and preventing any sticking.
Monitor and adjust the drying time
The drying time for plums in an air fryer can vary depending on factors such as the thickness of the slices, moisture content, and the specific model of the air fryer. Typically, plums take between 6-10 hours to fully dehydrate. However, it’s important to monitor their progress and adjust the drying time accordingly.
Checking for Dryness and Storage
Check the plum slices for dryness
To determine if the plum slices are adequately dehydrated, remove a few pieces from the air fryer and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Once cooled, check their texture. Properly dehydrated plums should be slightly leathery, chewy, and no longer sticky.
If the plum slices are still moist or sticky, place them back in the air fryer and continue the drying process. Keep in mind that the drying time can vary, so it’s important to be patient and ensure the plums are thoroughly dehydrated.
Allow the plums to cool completely
Once you’ve determined that the plum slices are adequately dehydrated, allow them to cool completely before storing. Cooling helps to remove any residual moisture and prevent condensation, which can cause spoilage during storage.
Store the dehydrated plums
To store the dehydrated plums, transfer them to an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. Ensure that the container is clean and free from moisture. Keep the container in a cool, dry, and dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard. Properly stored dehydrated plums can last for several months, retaining their flavor and nutritional value.
Enjoying Dehydrated Plums
As a standalone snack
Dehydrated plums make for a nutritious and delicious standalone snack. Enjoy them as an on-the-go treat, pack them in lunchboxes, or keep them handy for whenever a craving strikes. Their natural sweetness and chewy texture make them a satisfying alternative to processed sweets.
In baked goods and desserts
Dehydrated plums can also be incorporated into various baked goods and desserts. Chop them into small pieces and add them to muffins, cookies, or granola bars for a burst of natural sweetness. You can also rehydrate the dried plums by soaking them in warm water or juice to make a compote or sauce for drizzling over pancakes, ice cream, or yogurt.
In savory dishes
Don’t limit dehydrated plums to just sweet recipes! They can add a unique and tangy twist to savory dishes as well. Chop them finely and use them as a topping for salads or grain bowls. Their concentrated flavor pairs well with both meat and vegetarian dishes, creating a delightful contrast of tastes.
In conclusion, drying plums in an air fryer is a simple and convenient method of preserving this delicious fruit. By following these steps and guidelines, you can easily transform fresh plums into flavorful and healthy dehydrated snacks. So, grab your air fryer, prepare some plums, and indulge in the goodness of homemade dehydrated plums.