Gourmia GFD1550 User manual

CUT + DRY AUTO DEHYDRATOR
MODEL# GFD1550

© 2016 Gourmia
www.Gourmia.com
The Steelstone Group
Brooklyn, NY
All rights reserved. No portion of this manual may be reproduced by any means whatsoever
without written permission from The Steelstone Group, except for the inclusion of quotations in
a media review.
Although every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this manual, The Steelstone
Group assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. Nor is any liability assumed for damages
resulting from the use of the information contained herein. Although every eort has been made
to ensure that the information contained in this manual is complete and accurate, The Steelstone
Group is not engaged in rendering professional advice or services to the individual consumer;
further, The Steelstone Group shall not be held responsible for any loss or damage allegedly
arising from any information or suggestion in this manual.
10987654321
Printed in China
Enjoy Naturally Good-for-You
Dried Snacks & Treats from GOURMIA!
With the purchase of the Cut + Dry Auto Dehydrator, you are entering the sweet,
healthful and delicious world of natural snacking! Now, you can prepare the freshly
dried fruit, herbs, flowers, vegetables and meat you like with very little effort.
Consider all the snacks you’d like to eat and enjoy…fresh fruit slices, earthy dried
beets, sweet dried carrots, delectable dried pineapple, super-sweet strawberries-
the list goes on and on! The results of natural dehydration are not only delicious,
they are truly healthful and certainly less costly than purchased dried foods.
We are sure you and your family will love all the delicious trail mixes, granola, dried
herbs, meat jerky and other dehydrated treats you will prepare in the Gourmia Cut
+ Dry Auto Dehydrator. It’s never been so easy!
The following pages of this manual give you full and complete instructions for all
the functions and features of your Cut + Dry Auto Dehydrator. Inside these pages,
you’ll find safety information, instructions for operating, assembly, cleaning and
maintenance of your Cut + Dry Auto Dehydrator. You’ll also find helpful charts for
preparing foods for dehydration, along with pre-treatment suggestions and
helpful hints. Please read all safety instructions and complete directions carefully
for safe usage at all times.
Thank you for your purchase! We hope you will enjoy all the innovative products
brought to you by our family at Gourmia.

© 2016 Gourmia
www.Gourmia.com
The Steelstone Group
Brooklyn, NY
All rights reserved. No portion of this manual may be reproduced by any means whatsoever
without written permission from The Steelstone Group, except for the inclusion of quotations in
a media review.
Although every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this manual, The Steelstone
Group assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. Nor is any liability assumed for damages
resulting from the use of the information contained herein. Although every eort has been made
to ensure that the information contained in this manual is complete and accurate, The Steelstone
Group is not engaged in rendering professional advice or services to the individual consumer;
further, The Steelstone Group shall not be held responsible for any loss or damage allegedly
arising from any information or suggestion in this manual.
10987654321
Printed in China
Enjoy Naturally Good-for-You
Dried Snacks & Treats from GOURMIA!
With the purchase of the Cut + Dry Auto Dehydrator, you are entering the sweet,
healthful and delicious world of natural snacking! Now, you can prepare the freshly
dried fruit, herbs, flowers, vegetables and meat you like with very little effort.
Consider all the snacks you’d like to eat and enjoy…fresh fruit slices, earthy dried
beets, sweet dried carrots, delectable dried pineapple, super-sweet strawberries-
the list goes on and on! The results of natural dehydration are not only delicious,
they are truly healthful and certainly less costly than purchased dried foods.
We are sure you and your family will love all the delicious trail mixes, granola, dried
herbs, meat jerky and other dehydrated treats you will prepare in the Gourmia Cut
+ Dry Auto Dehydrator. It’s never been so easy!
The following pages of this manual give you full and complete instructions for all
the functions and features of your Cut + Dry Auto Dehydrator. Inside these pages,
you’ll find safety information, instructions for operating, assembly, cleaning and
maintenance of your Cut + Dry Auto Dehydrator. You’ll also find helpful charts for
preparing foods for dehydration, along with pre-treatment suggestions and
helpful hints. Please read all safety instructions and complete directions carefully
for safe usage at all times.
Thank you for your purchase! We hope you will enjoy all the innovative products
brought to you by our family at Gourmia.

5
SAFETY FIRST P. 6
FEATURES & FUNCTIONS p. 8
BEFORE FIRST USE p. 12
ASSEMBLY & OPERATING p. 14
FOOD SELECTION & PREPARATION p. 16
FOOD DRYING GUIDE p.20
MAINTENANCE & SERVICE p. 22
WARRANTY p. 24
TABLE OF CONTENTS

5
SAFETY FIRST P. 6
FEATURES & FUNCTIONS p. 8
BEFORE FIRST USE p. 12
ASSEMBLY & OPERATING p. 14
FOOD SELECTION & PREPARATION p. 16
FOOD DRYING GUIDE p.20
MAINTENANCE & SERVICE p. 22
WARRANTY p. 24
TABLE OF CONTENTS

76
SAFETY INFORMATION
SAFETY INFORMATION
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS
When operating this electric appliance, basic safety instructions should always be
followed. Refer to the following for these instructions.
1. READ ALL SAFETY & USAGE INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING
DEHYDRATOR.
2. EXERCISE CAUTION: Do not touch hot surfaces or trays while dehydrating.
Burns may occur.
3. AVOID ELECTRICAL SHOCK. Do not immerse cord, plug or the Dehydrator
Base in water or other liquid.
4. Use pot holders, if needed, when handling the Drying Trays or EasyVue Lid.
5. UNPLUG Dehydrator from outlet when not in use or before cleaning.
DO NOT add or remove parts or accessories while hot. Do not let cord hang
over edge of table or counter or touch hot surfaces.
6. Children should not use Dehydrator unsupervised; close supervision is
required when appliance is used near or with children.
7. Never touch, cover or obstruct the Top Air Vent or Bottom Air Intake during
or after operation. Hot air may cause burns. Keep children away from Vent
and Intake.
8. Operate the Dehydrator on a level surface well away from any hot gas or
electrical burner, heat source, combustible spray cans or pressurized items.
9. DO NOToperate the Dehydrator outdoors.
10. Never operate the Dehydrator with a damaged cord or plug or one that has
malfunctioned or been damaged in any way. Immediately contact Customer
Service for analysis.
11. DO NOT add unauthorized accessory attachments. Such use may result in
electric shock, injury or fire.
12. Use only factory cord supplied; NEVER add extension cords. When done
using, switch control to OFF then pull plug from outlet.
13. DO NOT operate the Dehydrator when empty
14. Do not use the Dehydrator for any use other than intended. Do not use on
or near a stovetop or other heat source.
FOR HOUSEHOLD USE ONLY
Electrical Polarized Plug: This Dehydrator
has a polarized plug (one blade is wider than
the other). To reduce the risk of electrical
shock, the plug is intended to be used by
inserting it into the electrical outlet only one
way. If the plug does not t securely into the
outlet, turn the plug and re-insert. Do not
modify this plug. If the plug does not t the
outlet securely, call a qualied electrician
for assistance. DO NOT use this plug with
extension cords of any kind.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

76
SAFETY INFORMATION
SAFETY INFORMATION
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS
When operating this electric appliance, basic safety instructions should always be
followed. Refer to the following for these instructions.
1. READ ALL SAFETY & USAGE INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING
DEHYDRATOR.
2. EXERCISE CAUTION: Do not touch hot surfaces or trays while dehydrating.
Burns may occur.
3. AVOID ELECTRICAL SHOCK. Do not immerse cord, plug or the Dehydrator
Base in water or other liquid.
4. Use pot holders, if needed, when handling the Drying Trays or EasyVue Lid.
5. UNPLUG Dehydrator from outlet when not in use or before cleaning.
DO NOT add or remove parts or accessories while hot. Do not let cord hang
over edge of table or counter or touch hot surfaces.
6. Children should not use Dehydrator unsupervised; close supervision is
required when appliance is used near or with children.
7. Never touch, cover or obstruct the Top Air Vent or Bottom Air Intake during
or after operation. Hot air may cause burns. Keep children away from Vent
and Intake.
8. Operate the Dehydrator on a level surface well away from any hot gas or
electrical burner, heat source, combustible spray cans or pressurized items.
9. DO NOToperate the Dehydrator outdoors.
10. Never operate the Dehydrator with a damaged cord or plug or one that has
malfunctioned or been damaged in any way. Immediately contact Customer
Service for analysis.
11. DO NOT add unauthorized accessory attachments. Such use may result in
electric shock, injury or fire.
12. Use only factory cord supplied; NEVER add extension cords. When done
using, switch control to OFF then pull plug from outlet.
13. DO NOT operate the Dehydrator when empty
14. Do not use the Dehydrator for any use other than intended. Do not use on
or near a stovetop or other heat source.
FOR HOUSEHOLD USE ONLY
Electrical Polarized Plug: This Dehydrator
has a polarized plug (one blade is wider than
the other). To reduce the risk of electrical
shock, the plug is intended to be used by
inserting it into the electrical outlet only one
way. If the plug does not t securely into the
outlet, turn the plug and re-insert. Do not
modify this plug. If the plug does not t the
outlet securely, call a qualied electrician
for assistance. DO NOT use this plug with
extension cords of any kind.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

9
FEATURES & FUNCTIONS
A. Cut + Dry Auto Dehydrator Base: The Base for the Cut + Dry Auto Dehydrator
holds 5 Drying Trays and the EasyVue Lid. The Drying Trays easily stack and align one
on top of the other. You may use one tray or all ve, depending on how much food
you choose to dehydrate. The Automatic Fan sits in the interior of the Base below the
Drying Trays . The Cut + Dry Auto Dehydrator is specially designed to securely hold
food on trays while drying.
B. Internal Automatic Fan: The Automatic Fan is housed internally and circulates
warm air throughout the dehydrator for uniform drying. The Automatic Fan operates
as directed by the LCD Easy Control Panel.
C. Bottom Air Intake Vents The Bottom Air Intake Vents on the Cut + Dry Auto
Dehydrator pulls air into the unit and pushes it through the dehydrator housing and
trays. Do not obstruct or cover the Bottom Air Intake Vents during operation or while
cooling after use.
D. EasyVue Lid: An important feature of the Cut + Dry Auto Dehydrator is the EasyVue
Lid, which is transparent for quick viewing. The process of drying can be observed
without opening the Lid, which reduces the loss of heat and allows views of all tray
levels
E. Drying Trays: There are 5 (ve) plastic Drying Trays included with the Cut + Dry
Auto Dehydrator. One of the trays is the Center Cap Tray, which must be placed on top
of all other trays used. The EasyVue Lid is placed over the Center Cap Tray.
The trays provide enough space to dry a substantial amount of food in one easy
operation. Note that the plastic trays are not designed to hold heavy foods. They are
perforated thoroughly to allow air to circulate for drying.
8
FEATURES & FUNCTIONS
A
B C
D
E

9
FEATURES & FUNCTIONS
A. Cut + Dry Auto Dehydrator Base: The Base for the Cut + Dry Auto Dehydrator
holds 5 Drying Trays and the EasyVue Lid. The Drying Trays easily stack and align one
on top of the other. You may use one tray or all ve, depending on how much food
you choose to dehydrate. The Automatic Fan sits in the interior of the Base below the
Drying Trays . The Cut + Dry Auto Dehydrator is specially designed to securely hold
food on trays while drying.
B. Internal Automatic Fan: The Automatic Fan is housed internally and circulates
warm air throughout the dehydrator for uniform drying. The Automatic Fan operates
as directed by the LCD Easy Control Panel.
C. Bottom Air Intake Vents The Bottom Air Intake Vents on the Cut + Dry Auto
Dehydrator pulls air into the unit and pushes it through the dehydrator housing and
trays. Do not obstruct or cover the Bottom Air Intake Vents during operation or while
cooling after use.
D. EasyVue Lid: An important feature of the Cut + Dry Auto Dehydrator is the EasyVue
Lid, which is transparent for quick viewing. The process of drying can be observed
without opening the Lid, which reduces the loss of heat and allows views of all tray
levels
E. Drying Trays: There are 5 (ve) plastic Drying Trays included with the Cut + Dry
Auto Dehydrator. One of the trays is the Center Cap Tray, which must be placed on top
of all other trays used. The EasyVue Lid is placed over the Center Cap Tray.
The trays provide enough space to dry a substantial amount of food in one easy
operation. Note that the plastic trays are not designed to hold heavy foods. They are
perforated thoroughly to allow air to circulate for drying.
8
FEATURES & FUNCTIONS
A
B C
D
E

2
1
34
5
11
FEATURES & FUNCTIONS
FEATURES & FUNCTIONS
F. LCD Control Panel: The LCD Control Panel holds the electronic instructions for
drying foods. Set the time and temperature as desired and the Cut + Dry Auto
Dehydrator does the rest.
1. LCD Display
2. On-O Button
3. + Button
4. — Button
5. SET Button
See complete instructions for the LCD Control Panel in the section “Assembly &
Operating” (p. 15).

2
1
34
5
11
FEATURES & FUNCTIONS
FEATURES & FUNCTIONS
F. LCD Control Panel: The LCD Control Panel holds the electronic instructions for
drying foods. Set the time and temperature as desired and the Cut + Dry Auto
Dehydrator does the rest.
1. LCD Display
2. On-O Button
3. + Button
4. — Button
5. SET Button
See complete instructions for the LCD Control Panel in the section “Assembly &
Operating” (p. 15).

13
BEFORE FIRST USE
1. Place the Cut + Dry Auto Dehydrator on a level, at surface that is clean
and dry.
2. Ensure that the Cut + Dry Auto Dehydrator is several inches away from
obstructions, such as walls, cabinets, doors, and other appliances. Allow
enough room above the Dehydrator so the EasyVue Lid can be lifted.
3. Wash the Drying Trays and EasyVue Lid in warm, sudsy water. Dry
thoroughly.
4. Use a soft damp cloth to clean the interior and exterior of the Cut + Dry
Auto Dehydrator Base. Dry with a paper towel or soft cloth.
5. Read safety instructions.
6. Press the ON/OFF button to start the drying process. Dry the interior and
Drying Trays for 30 minutes before adding food. This helps dry the interior
for initial use. Smoke or odors are normal during the initial 30 minute
drying time. Allow sucient ventilation.
13
BEFORE FIRST USE

13
BEFORE FIRST USE
1. Place the Cut + Dry Auto Dehydrator on a level, at surface that is clean
and dry.
2. Ensure that the Cut + Dry Auto Dehydrator is several inches away from
obstructions, such as walls, cabinets, doors, and other appliances. Allow
enough room above the Dehydrator so the EasyVue Lid can be lifted.
3. Wash the Drying Trays and EasyVue Lid in warm, sudsy water. Dry
thoroughly.
4. Use a soft damp cloth to clean the interior and exterior of the Cut + Dry
Auto Dehydrator Base. Dry with a paper towel or soft cloth.
5. Read safety instructions.
6. Press the ON/OFF button to start the drying process. Dry the interior and
Drying Trays for 30 minutes before adding food. This helps dry the interior
for initial use. Smoke or odors are normal during the initial 30 minute
drying time. Allow sucient ventilation.
13
BEFORE FIRST USE

1514
ASSEMBLY & OPERATING
ASSEMBLY
1. Place prepared food on the Drying Trays (see p. 17 for food preparation
tips). Do not overload the Drying Trays with food.
2. Food should be placed on Drying Trays in single layers ONLY, not touching
or overlapping in any way.
3. Stack the filled Drying Trays on the Dehydrator Base (fig 1), aligning each
tray with the other Trays so that they are all level and secure (fig 2 and fig3).
4. The Center Cap Tray should ALWAYS be the top tray used. If using only one
tray, make sure it is the Center Cap Tray (g 4).
5. When the Drying Trays are in place, position the EasyVue Lid over the
Center Cap Tray (g 5 and 6).
OPERATING
1. Plug the polarized plug into a compatible outlet. The LCD Display will ash
“00” hours.
2. Press the + or — buttons to set the Dehydrator time: 1 hour minimum to
48 hours maximum.
3. Press the“SET” button. The LCD Display will ash a preset temperature of
130°F.
4. Press the + or — buttons to set the Dehydrator temperature: 105°F
to 158°F.
5. Press the SET button. The LCD Display will ash the time set for
dehydration.
6. Press the ON/OFF button to start the dehydration process. The LCD Display
will alternately indicate the time remaining and the set time.
7. When 6 minutes remain in the process, the Timer will count down to
“00” minutes. The Dehydrator will turn OFF. The Display will indicate “00.”
If, during dehydration, a pause is desired, press the ON/OFF button. The
Display will indicate“PA.” Resume dehydration by pressing the ON/OFF
button again.
g. 1 g. 2
g. 4
g. 6
g. 3
g. 5
Drying Tray
Center Cap Tray

1514
ASSEMBLY & OPERATING
ASSEMBLY
1. Place prepared food on the Drying Trays (see p. 17 for food preparation
tips). Do not overload the Drying Trays with food.
2. Food should be placed on Drying Trays in single layers ONLY, not touching
or overlapping in any way.
3. Stack the filled Drying Trays on the Dehydrator Base (fig 1), aligning each
tray with the other Trays so that they are all level and secure (fig 2 and fig3).
4. The Center Cap Tray should ALWAYS be the top tray used. If using only one
tray, make sure it is the Center Cap Tray (g 4).
5. When the Drying Trays are in place, position the EasyVue Lid over the
Center Cap Tray (g 5 and 6).
OPERATING
1. Plug the polarized plug into a compatible outlet. The LCD Display will ash
“00” hours.
2. Press the + or — buttons to set the Dehydrator time: 1 hour minimum to
48 hours maximum.
3. Press the“SET” button. The LCD Display will ash a preset temperature of
130°F.
4. Press the + or — buttons to set the Dehydrator temperature: 105°F
to 158°F.
5. Press the SET button. The LCD Display will ash the time set for
dehydration.
6. Press the ON/OFF button to start the dehydration process. The LCD Display
will alternately indicate the time remaining and the set time.
7. When 6 minutes remain in the process, the Timer will count down to
“00” minutes. The Dehydrator will turn OFF. The Display will indicate “00.”
If, during dehydration, a pause is desired, press the ON/OFF button. The
Display will indicate“PA.” Resume dehydration by pressing the ON/OFF
button again.
g. 1 g. 2
g. 4
g. 6
g. 3
g. 5
Drying Tray
Center Cap Tray

17
FOOD SELECTION & PREPARATION
Food Selection & Preparation
The drying time for any food is dependent on several factors, including the thickness
of the food, the amount of food in the dehydrator, the type of foods to be dried
and the humidity level of the weather. Because of these factors, you will want to
occasionally check the food as it dries and determine whether or not it is ready to
be removed.
One easy way to determine if food is dried is to place a piece in a small, self-sealing
plastic bag. Seal the bag and shake it lightly. If moisture appears, the food is not
ready to be removed.
Drying Fruit – Hints & Tips
• Select fruit that is ripe; avoid fruit that is not yet ripe or over-ripe. If not yet ripe, the
texture and taste may be unappealing; if over-ripe, the texture may be mushy and
the avor bland.
• Wash fruit just before drying to remove any debris or dirt.
• Do not use fruit that has blemishes, evidence of bug infestation or worms, or
discoloration.
• Cut o parts of fruit that appear to be bruised or damaged in transit.
• Discard pits, stones, seeds and other inedible parts of the fruit.
• Peel fruit, if desired, or if rinds or peels lend a bitter or unappetizing taste or
texture.
• Always peel waxed or sprayed fruit.
• Slice or cut fruit as desired (see notes following).
Cutting & Slicing Fruit – Hints & Tips
Fruit can be peeled and quartered, such as apricots, or sliced thinly, whichever
method is best suited to the fruit you are using. Cut plums, cherries, and peaches
in half and remove the pits or stones. For fruit such as apples, peel and slice thinly.
Consider pre-treatment for apples to make them especially appetizing (see the
section following). When cutting fruit, the sizes should be uniform so that the drying
is also uniform.

17
FOOD SELECTION & PREPARATION
Food Selection & Preparation
The drying time for any food is dependent on several factors, including the thickness
of the food, the amount of food in the dehydrator, the type of foods to be dried
and the humidity level of the weather. Because of these factors, you will want to
occasionally check the food as it dries and determine whether or not it is ready to
be removed.
One easy way to determine if food is dried is to place a piece in a small, self-sealing
plastic bag. Seal the bag and shake it lightly. If moisture appears, the food is not
ready to be removed.
Drying Fruit – Hints & Tips
• Select fruit that is ripe; avoid fruit that is not yet ripe or over-ripe. If not yet ripe, the
texture and taste may be unappealing; if over-ripe, the texture may be mushy and
the avor bland.
• Wash fruit just before drying to remove any debris or dirt.
• Do not use fruit that has blemishes, evidence of bug infestation or worms, or
discoloration.
• Cut o parts of fruit that appear to be bruised or damaged in transit.
• Discard pits, stones, seeds and other inedible parts of the fruit.
• Peel fruit, if desired, or if rinds or peels lend a bitter or unappetizing taste or
texture.
• Always peel waxed or sprayed fruit.
• Slice or cut fruit as desired (see notes following).
Cutting & Slicing Fruit – Hints & Tips
Fruit can be peeled and quartered, such as apricots, or sliced thinly, whichever
method is best suited to the fruit you are using. Cut plums, cherries, and peaches
in half and remove the pits or stones. For fruit such as apples, peel and slice thinly.
Consider pre-treatment for apples to make them especially appetizing (see the
section following). When cutting fruit, the sizes should be uniform so that the drying
is also uniform.

1918
Food Selection & Preparation
Food Selection & Preparation
Drying Vegetables – Hints & Tips
As with fruit, the critical component of drying vegetables is to start with the most
fresh, crisp vegetables at the peak of ripeness.
• Unripe vegetables often have an extremely bitter, acidic avor. Avoid any that are
under-ripe or over-ripe for best avor results.
• Wash and dry vegetables just before drying to remove any debris or dirt.
• Do not use vegetables that have blemishes, evidence of bug infestation or worms, or
discoloration.
• Cut o parts of vegetables that appear to be bruised or damaged in transit.
• Discard seeds, stems, rinds and other inedible parts of the vegetable.
• Peel vegetables; almost all vegetables should be peeled or cut before drying. Rinds
or peels lend a bitter or unappetizing taste or texture.
• Slice or cut vegetables as desired (see notes following).
Cutting & Slicing Vegetables – Hints & Tips
Create uniform pieces for drying; slice or quarter vegetables as needed. Pieces should
be no larger than 1½ -2 inches in diameter. Cut thin slices of dense vegetables, such
as potatoes and beets. Trim ends and leave some vegetables whole, such as asparagus
and green beans.
Pre-treatment of vegetables is usually recommended and is best accomplished by
blanching over boiling water for 2 to 3 minutes, just long enough to set the color and
remove acidic avors. After blanching, arrange on the Drying Trays.
Drying Meat – Hints & Tips
• Meat must be sliced very thinly to be dried. Partially freeze meat for up to 1 hour.
Remove and slice thinly across the grain. Place on the Drying Trays right away.
• Seafood llets should also be thinly sliced. If needed, partially freeze the sh rst for
up to 1 hour. Remove any bones, even small ones, for best results.
• Create a great lowfat Teriyaki Chicken Jerky by thinly slicing chicken breasts and
marinating in Teriyaki sauce for 1 hour prior to drying. Pat dry and arrange on Drying
Trays. When done, add crushed red pepper, chili powder or other spices to kick up
the avor.
Drying Nuts – Hints & Tips
• To reduce enzymes, rst soak raw nuts in plenty of water for 24 hours before drying
(cashews for 6 hours). The nuts will expand in size – allow plenty of room in the jar or
bowl. Drain the nuts and dry until crispy, about 10 hours. Store in air-tight containers.
Drying Herbs & Edible Flowers – Hints & Tips
• Rinse thoroughly in cold water and gently dry. Remove any dead or discolored leaves.
Spread on Drying Trays and dry for up to 8 hours. Remove and cool. Break or crush
the herbs and store in a dark, cool place in a self-sealing container. Flowers can be
dried in much the same way and used as garnishes or for avoring.
CAUTION: Ensure that the flowers and herbs selected for drying are edible and pose
no danger or threat if consumed. If in doubt, throw away the herbs or flowers.
(CHECK TEMPS)
Pre-Treatment for Fruit
Preparation for drying can include dipping fruit into their own juices, such
as lemons, limes and other citrus fruit.
Sodium Bisulte (food grade) can also be used. Use a ratio of 1 teaspoon to
one quart of water. Dipping fruit into the water mixture preserves color and
nutrients.
Steaming can also be used to set color in fruit. Steam only a few minutes
over a gentle heat. Remove and cool completely. Dry with a paper towel
and place in the dehydrator.

1918
Food Selection & Preparation
Food Selection & Preparation
Drying Vegetables – Hints & Tips
As with fruit, the critical component of drying vegetables is to start with the most
fresh, crisp vegetables at the peak of ripeness.
• Unripe vegetables often have an extremely bitter, acidic avor. Avoid any that are
under-ripe or over-ripe for best avor results.
• Wash and dry vegetables just before drying to remove any debris or dirt.
• Do not use vegetables that have blemishes, evidence of bug infestation or worms, or
discoloration.
• Cut o parts of vegetables that appear to be bruised or damaged in transit.
• Discard seeds, stems, rinds and other inedible parts of the vegetable.
• Peel vegetables; almost all vegetables should be peeled or cut before drying. Rinds
or peels lend a bitter or unappetizing taste or texture.
• Slice or cut vegetables as desired (see notes following).
Cutting & Slicing Vegetables – Hints & Tips
Create uniform pieces for drying; slice or quarter vegetables as needed. Pieces should
be no larger than 1½ -2 inches in diameter. Cut thin slices of dense vegetables, such
as potatoes and beets. Trim ends and leave some vegetables whole, such as asparagus
and green beans.
Pre-treatment of vegetables is usually recommended and is best accomplished by
blanching over boiling water for 2 to 3 minutes, just long enough to set the color and
remove acidic avors. After blanching, arrange on the Drying Trays.
Drying Meat – Hints & Tips
• Meat must be sliced very thinly to be dried. Partially freeze meat for up to 1 hour.
Remove and slice thinly across the grain. Place on the Drying Trays right away.
• Seafood llets should also be thinly sliced. If needed, partially freeze the sh rst for
up to 1 hour. Remove any bones, even small ones, for best results.
• Create a great lowfat Teriyaki Chicken Jerky by thinly slicing chicken breasts and
marinating in Teriyaki sauce for 1 hour prior to drying. Pat dry and arrange on Drying
Trays. When done, add crushed red pepper, chili powder or other spices to kick up
the avor.
Drying Nuts – Hints & Tips
• To reduce enzymes, rst soak raw nuts in plenty of water for 24 hours before drying
(cashews for 6 hours). The nuts will expand in size – allow plenty of room in the jar or
bowl. Drain the nuts and dry until crispy, about 10 hours. Store in air-tight containers.
Drying Herbs & Edible Flowers – Hints & Tips
• Rinse thoroughly in cold water and gently dry. Remove any dead or discolored leaves.
Spread on Drying Trays and dry for up to 8 hours. Remove and cool. Break or crush
the herbs and store in a dark, cool place in a self-sealing container. Flowers can be
dried in much the same way and used as garnishes or for avoring.
CAUTION: Ensure that the flowers and herbs selected for drying are edible and pose
no danger or threat if consumed. If in doubt, throw away the herbs or flowers.
(CHECK TEMPS)
Pre-Treatment for Fruit
Preparation for drying can include dipping fruit into their own juices, such
as lemons, limes and other citrus fruit.
Sodium Bisulte (food grade) can also be used. Use a ratio of 1 teaspoon to
one quart of water. Dipping fruit into the water mixture preserves color and
nutrients.
Steaming can also be used to set color in fruit. Steam only a few minutes
over a gentle heat. Remove and cool completely. Dry with a paper towel
and place in the dehydrator.

21
Fruit Drying
Times Temp (°F) Preparation
Apples 6-7 hours 135-145 slice ¼-inch thick
Bananas 7-8 hours 135-145 slice ¼-inch thick
Blueberries 36-42 hours 135-145 arrange whole berries
on trays
Grapes 42-48 hours 135-145 slice in half
Mango 4-6 hours 135-145 slice -inch thick
Pineapple 8-9 hours 135-145 slice ¼-inch thick
Raspberries 24-28 hours 135-145 arrange whole berries
on trays
Strawberries 8-10 hours 135-145 slice ½-inch thick
Tomatoes 6-8 hours 135-145 slice ¼-inch thick
Herbs 4-6 hours 100-115 Arrange on trays
Vegetables Drying
Times Temp (°F) Preparation
Beets 4-6 hours 125-140 Peel, slice -inch thick
Bell peppers 10-12 hours 125-140 Slice ¼-inch thick
Broccoli 4-5 hours 125-140 Break into orets
Carrots 4-6 hours 125-140 Peel, slice -inch thick
Celery 3-4 hours 125-140 Slice ¼-inch thick
Kale 4-5 hours 125-140 Arrange whole leaves
on trays
Mushrooms 3-4 hours 125-140 Slice ¼-inch thick
Summer Squash 4-6 hours 125-140 Slice ¼-inch thick
Yams 4-5 hours 125-140 Slice ¼-inch thick
Meat, Seafood
& Jerky
Drying
Times Temp (°F) Preparation
Beef, Poultry or Fish 5-6 hours 150-158 Trim fat o, slice
¼-inch thick
FOOD DRYING GUIDE