Ingredients
2 cups sliced strawberries
1 cup water
Instructions
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Prepare the Strawberries: Wash and dry the strawberries thoroughly. Remove the green stems and slice them into even, thin pieces. The thinner the slices, the quicker they will dry.
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Soak the Strawberries: Place the sliced strawberries in a bowl and cover them with 1 cup of water. Let them soak for about 10 minutes to soften and absorb some of the water.
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Preheat the Oven or Dehydrator:
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Oven: Preheat to the lowest temperature (around 170°F or 77°C).
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Dehydrator: Set to 135°F (57°C).
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Dry the Strawberries:
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Oven Method: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the soaked strawberry slices in a single layer, ensuring no overlap. Leave the oven door slightly ajar to allow moisture to escape. Check every 2-3 hours, turning occasionally. Drying time is 6-8 hours, depending on slice thickness.
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Dehydrator Method: Place slices in a single layer on dehydrator trays. Dry for 6-8 hours, or until fully dried.
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Check for Doneness: The strawberries should feel firm and dry with no soft or sticky spots. If they are too soft, continue drying for a bit longer.
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Cool and Store: Allow the dried strawberries to cool completely before storing in an airtight container (glass jar or vacuum-sealed bag) for freshness.
Notes
Sweetened Version: Sprinkle sweetener (like stevia, monk fruit, or erythritol) over the slices before drying if desired.
Flavor Variations: Add cinnamon or vanilla extract to the slices before drying for a flavored twist.
Freeze-Dried Option: If you have a freeze-dryer, it’s a great option for preserving texture and color.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack, Healthy
- Method: Drying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan