Gourmia GFD1750 User manual

CUT + DRY DEHYDRATOR
MODEL# GFD1750
GFD1850

© 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 your purchase of the Cut + Dry Dehydrator, you are entering the sweet,
healthful and delicious world of natural snacking! Now, you can prepare the fresh
fruit, herbs, owers, vegetables and meat you like and dehydrate them successfully
with very little eort. Consider all the snacks you’d like to eat and enjoy…fruit
leathers or roll-ups, earthy dried beets, sweet dried carrots, delectable dried
pineapple, super-sweet strawberries, and 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 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 Dehydrator. Inside these pages, you’ll nd
safety information, instructions for operating, assembly, cleaning and maintenance
of your Cut + Dry Dehydrator. You’ll also nd 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 your purchase of the Cut + Dry Dehydrator, you are entering the sweet,
healthful and delicious world of natural snacking! Now, you can prepare the fresh
fruit, herbs, owers, vegetables and meat you like and dehydrate them successfully
with very little eort. Consider all the snacks you’d like to eat and enjoy…fruit
leathers or roll-ups, earthy dried beets, sweet dried carrots, delectable dried
pineapple, super-sweet strawberries, and 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 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 Dehydrator. Inside these pages, you’ll nd
safety information, instructions for operating, assembly, cleaning and maintenance
of your Cut + Dry Dehydrator. You’ll also nd 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. 9
BEFORE FIRST USE & ASSEMBLY p. 11
STEP BY STEP INSTRUCTIONS p. 13
FOOD SELECTION & PREPARATION p. 17
FRUIT
VEGETABLES
MEAT
NUTS
HERBS & FLOWERS
FOOD DRYING GUIDE p. 21
MAINTENANCE p. 23
WARRANTY & SERVICE p. 25
TABLE OF CONTENTS

5
SAFETY FIRST P. 6
FEATURES & FUNCTIONS p. 9
BEFORE FIRST USE & ASSEMBLY p. 11
STEP BY STEP INSTRUCTIONS p. 13
FOOD SELECTION & PREPARATION p. 17
FRUIT
VEGETABLES
MEAT
NUTS
HERBS & FLOWERS
FOOD DRYING GUIDE p. 21
MAINTENANCE p. 23
WARRANTY & SERVICE p. 25
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 CUT + DRY
DEHYDRATOR.
2. EXERCISE EXTREME CAUTION: Do not touch hot surfaces or trays while
dehydrating. Burns may occur.
3. AVOID ELECTRICAL SHOCK. DO NOT immerse cord, plug or the Cut +
Dry Dehydrator in water or other liquid.Use pot holders, if needed, when
handling the Drying Trays or EasyVue Lid.
4. Use pot holders when handling the hot Drying Trays.
5. UNPLUG Cut + Dry 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, including the
Cut + Dry Dehydrator.
6. Children should not use Cut + Dry Dehydrator unsupervised; close
supervision is required when appliance is used near or with children.
7. Operate the Cut + Dry Dehydrator on a level surface well away from any hot
gas or electrical burner, heat source, combustible spray cans or pressurized
items.
8. DO NOT operate the Cut + Dry Dehydrator outdoors.
9. Never operate the Cut + Dry Dehydrator with a damaged cord or plug or one
that has malfunctioned or been damaged in any way. Immediately contact
Customer Service for analysis.
10. DO NOT add unauthorized accessory attachments. Such use may result in
electric shock, injury or re.
11. Use only factory cord supplied; NEVER add extension cords. When done
using, switch control to OFF then pull plug from outlet.
12. DO NOT operate the Cut + Dry Dehydrator when empty.
13. Do not use the Cut + Dry 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 Cut + Dry
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 CUT + DRY
DEHYDRATOR.
2. EXERCISE EXTREME CAUTION: Do not touch hot surfaces or trays while
dehydrating. Burns may occur.
3. AVOID ELECTRICAL SHOCK. DO NOT immerse cord, plug or the Cut +
Dry Dehydrator in water or other liquid.Use pot holders, if needed, when
handling the Drying Trays or EasyVue Lid.
4. Use pot holders when handling the hot Drying Trays.
5. UNPLUG Cut + Dry 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, including the
Cut + Dry Dehydrator.
6. Children should not use Cut + Dry Dehydrator unsupervised; close
supervision is required when appliance is used near or with children.
7. Operate the Cut + Dry Dehydrator on a level surface well away from any hot
gas or electrical burner, heat source, combustible spray cans or pressurized
items.
8. DO NOT operate the Cut + Dry Dehydrator outdoors.
9. Never operate the Cut + Dry Dehydrator with a damaged cord or plug or one
that has malfunctioned or been damaged in any way. Immediately contact
Customer Service for analysis.
10. DO NOT add unauthorized accessory attachments. Such use may result in
electric shock, injury or re.
11. Use only factory cord supplied; NEVER add extension cords. When done
using, switch control to OFF then pull plug from outlet.
12. DO NOT operate the Cut + Dry Dehydrator when empty.
13. Do not use the Cut + Dry 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 Cut + Dry
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 Dehydrator Housing: The Housing unit for the Cut + Dry Dehydrator
holds the Drying Trays in integrated slots, the Automatic Fan and other interior
workings. It is specially designed to securely hold foods 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. Back Air Outlet: Air is removed from the Cut + Dry Dehydrator via the Back Air
Outlet. Do not obstruct or cover the vent during operation or while cooling after use.
D. EasyVue Door: An important feature of the Cut + Dry Dehydrator is the EasyVue
Door, which has a transparent window for quick viewing. The process of drying can
be observed without opening the door, which reduces the loss of heat and speeds
drying times.
CAUTION: Use caution when opening the door while food is drying. Although
temperatures are not high, burns can occur from hot air. Use pot holders while
opening and closing the EasyVue Door and handling Drying Trays. Opening the
EasyVue Door may increase drying times.
E. Drying Trays + Rack: There are 9 plastic Drying Trays with small perforations
included with the Cut + Dry Dehydrator.In addition, there is one Jerky & Sausage
Specialty Tray, made specically for hanging jerky or sausage over the wide spacers.
These trays provide enough space to dry a substantial amount of food in one easy
operation. The plastic trays are not designed to hold very heavy foods, so even
distribution of foods among several trays promises the best results. The trays are
perforated thoroughly to allow air to circulate for drying and to speed drying times.
F. Control Panel with LCD Display: The Control Panel holds all the electronic
instructions for drying foods. Follow the simple Step-by-Step instructions below to
successfully start and complete the drying process.
8
FEATURES & FUNCTIONS
A
D
E
F
E
B
C

9
FEATURES & FUNCTIONS
A. Cut + Dry Dehydrator Housing: The Housing unit for the Cut + Dry Dehydrator
holds the Drying Trays in integrated slots, the Automatic Fan and other interior
workings. It is specially designed to securely hold foods 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. Back Air Outlet: Air is removed from the Cut + Dry Dehydrator via the Back Air
Outlet. Do not obstruct or cover the vent during operation or while cooling after use.
D. EasyVue Door: An important feature of the Cut + Dry Dehydrator is the EasyVue
Door, which has a transparent window for quick viewing. The process of drying can
be observed without opening the door, which reduces the loss of heat and speeds
drying times.
CAUTION: Use caution when opening the door while food is drying. Although
temperatures are not high, burns can occur from hot air. Use pot holders while
opening and closing the EasyVue Door and handling Drying Trays. Opening the
EasyVue Door may increase drying times.
E. Drying Trays + Rack: There are 9 plastic Drying Trays with small perforations
included with the Cut + Dry Dehydrator.In addition, there is one Jerky & Sausage
Specialty Tray, made specically for hanging jerky or sausage over the wide spacers.
These trays provide enough space to dry a substantial amount of food in one easy
operation. The plastic trays are not designed to hold very heavy foods, so even
distribution of foods among several trays promises the best results. The trays are
perforated thoroughly to allow air to circulate for drying and to speed drying times.
F. Control Panel with LCD Display: The Control Panel holds all the electronic
instructions for drying foods. Follow the simple Step-by-Step instructions below to
successfully start and complete the drying process.
8
FEATURES & FUNCTIONS
A
D
E
F
E
B
C

11
BEFORE FIRST USE & ASSEMBLY
1. Place the Cut + Dry Dehydrator on a level, at surface that is clean and
dry.
2. Ensure that the Cut + Dry Dehydrator is several inches away from
obstructions, such as walls, cabinets, doors, and other appliances.
3. Wash the Drying Trays in warm, sudsy water. Dry thoroughly.
4. Use a soft damp cloth to clean the exterior of the Cut + Dry Dehydrator
and EasyVue Door. Dry with a paper towel or soft cloth.
5. Read safety instructions.
6. Press the ON/OFF Icon to start the Cut + Dry Dehydrator 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.
7. Insert Drying Trays into the Cut + Dry Dehydrator and enjoy!
11
BEFORE FIRST USE & ASSEMBLY

11
BEFORE FIRST USE & ASSEMBLY
1. Place the Cut + Dry Dehydrator on a level, at surface that is clean and
dry.
2. Ensure that the Cut + Dry Dehydrator is several inches away from
obstructions, such as walls, cabinets, doors, and other appliances.
3. Wash the Drying Trays in warm, sudsy water. Dry thoroughly.
4. Use a soft damp cloth to clean the exterior of the Cut + Dry Dehydrator
and EasyVue Door. Dry with a paper towel or soft cloth.
5. Read safety instructions.
6. Press the ON/OFF Icon to start the Cut + Dry Dehydrator 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.
7. Insert Drying Trays into the Cut + Dry Dehydrator and enjoy!
11
BEFORE FIRST USE & ASSEMBLY

1312
STEP BY STEP INSTRUCTIONS
STEP BY STEP INSTRUCTIONS
The Cut + Dry Dehydrator oers a choice of options for preferred drying results. You
may select one of the two following options for dehydrating foods. Follow the steps
below to prep your drying process, then choose your method:
I. Auto Drying Time & Temperature
II. Manual Drying Time & Temperature
1. Place prepared food onto the Drying Trays (see p. xx for food prep
instructions). 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. Attach the EasyVue Door by positioning the bottom of the Door with the
tabs into the slot provided on the bottom of the Housing. Move the top
of the Door toward the Housing until the Door seats into position and is
secured to the Housing by the magnets are the top of the Door. (g 1-3)
4. Plug the dehydrator into the outlet. The LCD Display on the Control Panel
will ash once. Select the drying mode of your choice:
I. Auto Drying Time & Temperature
1. Press the Power Button once. The default time of 12 hours will be set.
2. The default temperature of 150°F will be set.
3. The Dehydrator will automatically start with these settings and the Timer
will begin to countdown the remaining time until the time is complete.
4. When done, the Dehydrator will automatically turn o and the Fan will
stop within 10 seconds.
NOTE: If needed, press the Power Button at any time while drying to turn
the dehydrator o.
g. 1
g. 2
g. 3

1312
STEP BY STEP INSTRUCTIONS
STEP BY STEP INSTRUCTIONS
The Cut + Dry Dehydrator oers a choice of options for preferred drying results. You
may select one of the two following options for dehydrating foods. Follow the steps
below to prep your drying process, then choose your method:
I. Auto Drying Time & Temperature
II. Manual Drying Time & Temperature
1. Place prepared food onto the Drying Trays (see p. xx for food prep
instructions). 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. Attach the EasyVue Door by positioning the bottom of the Door with the
tabs into the slot provided on the bottom of the Housing. Move the top
of the Door toward the Housing until the Door seats into position and is
secured to the Housing by the magnets are the top of the Door. (g 1-3)
4. Plug the dehydrator into the outlet. The LCD Display on the Control Panel
will ash once. Select the drying mode of your choice:
I. Auto Drying Time & Temperature
1. Press the Power Button once. The default time of 12 hours will be set.
2. The default temperature of 150°F will be set.
3. The Dehydrator will automatically start with these settings and the Timer
will begin to countdown the remaining time until the time is complete.
4. When done, the Dehydrator will automatically turn o and the Fan will
stop within 10 seconds.
NOTE: If needed, press the Power Button at any time while drying to turn
the dehydrator o.
g. 1
g. 2
g. 3

15
STEP BY STEP INSTRUCTIONS
STEP BY STEP INSTRUCTIONS
II. Manual Drying Time & Temperature
1. Press the Power Button once. The default time of 12 hours will be set.
2. The default temperature of 150°F will be set.
3. To change the Time:
Press the“SET” Button until the Time Display ashes. Immediately press
the up ∆ or down Button to set the desired time. The time range is from
1 hour to 48 hours. The Time Display will stop ashing and the desired time
will be set.
4. To change the Temperature:
Press the“SET” Button until the Temperature Display ashes. Immediately
press the up ∆ or down Button to set the desired temperature. The
temperature range is from 104°F to 158°F. The Temperature Display will stop
ashing and the desired temperature will be set.
When the Cut + Dry Dehydrator has been manually set for time and
temperature, the Timer will countdown the remaining time until complete.
The Dehydrator will automatically turn o when done and the Fan will stop
within 10 seconds.
NOTE: The Time and Temperature settings may be changed at any time
during the dehydrating process.
When done, unplug power cord from the wall outlet.
∆
∆

15
STEP BY STEP INSTRUCTIONS
STEP BY STEP INSTRUCTIONS
II. Manual Drying Time & Temperature
1. Press the Power Button once. The default time of 12 hours will be set.
2. The default temperature of 150°F will be set.
3. To change the Time:
Press the“SET” Button until the Time Display ashes. Immediately press
the up ∆ or down Button to set the desired time. The time range is from
1 hour to 48 hours. The Time Display will stop ashing and the desired time
will be set.
4. To change the Temperature:
Press the“SET” Button until the Temperature Display ashes. Immediately
press the up ∆ or down Button to set the desired temperature. The
temperature range is from 104°F to 158°F. The Temperature Display will stop
ashing and the desired temperature will be set.
When the Cut + Dry Dehydrator has been manually set for time and
temperature, the Timer will countdown the remaining time until complete.
The Dehydrator will automatically turn o when done and the Fan will stop
within 10 seconds.
NOTE: The Time and Temperature settings may be changed at any time
during the dehydrating process.
When done, unplug power cord from the wall outlet.
∆
∆

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 levels 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 levels 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.

18
FOOD SELECTION & PREPARATION
FOOD SELECTION & PREPARATION
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.
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 Jerky & Sausage Specialty Tray
right away.
• Use the Jerky & Sausage Specialty Tray when drying meat. Drape jerky strips or hang
sausage strings over the Tray to dry.
• Seafood llets should also be thinly sliced. If needed, partially freeze the sh rst, thin
thinly sliced with a sharp knife. Remove any bones, even small ones, for best results.
• Create a great low fat Teriyaki Chicken Jerky by thinly slicing chicken breasts and
marinating in Teriyaki sauce for 1 hour prior to drying. Arrange on the Jerky &
Sausage Specialty Tray right away. 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: Be condent that the owers and herbs selected for drying are edible and
pose no danger or threat if consumed. If in doubt, throw away the herbs or owers.

18
FOOD SELECTION & PREPARATION
FOOD SELECTION & PREPARATION
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.
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 Jerky & Sausage Specialty Tray
right away.
• Use the Jerky & Sausage Specialty Tray when drying meat. Drape jerky strips or hang
sausage strings over the Tray to dry.
• Seafood llets should also be thinly sliced. If needed, partially freeze the sh rst, thin
thinly sliced with a sharp knife. Remove any bones, even small ones, for best results.
• Create a great low fat Teriyaki Chicken Jerky by thinly slicing chicken breasts and
marinating in Teriyaki sauce for 1 hour prior to drying. Arrange on the Jerky &
Sausage Specialty Tray right away. 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: Be condent that the owers and herbs selected for drying are edible and
pose no danger or threat if consumed. If in doubt, throw away the herbs or owers.

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