How to Dehydrate Mangos: 11 Steps
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Mangos are a delicious and nutritious tropical fruit that can be enjoyed in many ways. One popular method of preserving the flavor and nutrition of mangos is dehydrating them. Here are 11 simple steps to dehydrate mangos at home.
1. Choose the right mangos: Select ripe, firm, and blemish-free mangos for dehydrating. Ripe mangos will offer the sweetest taste, while firm ones will be easier to slice.
2. Clean your workspace: Ensure you are working on a clean surface with sanitized utensils and equipment.
3. Wash the mangos: Rinse the mangos thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.
4. Peel the mangos: Using a sharp knife or vegetable peeler, peel the skin off the mangos, being careful not to remove too much of the underlying flesh.
5. Slice the mangos: Cut the mangos into thin, even slices, approximately ¼-inch thick. The more uniform your slices are, the more evenly they will dry.
6. Treat slices to prevent browning (optional): Mix equal parts lemon juice and water in a bowl and dip each mango slice into this mixture before laying them out on your drying trays. This step helps prevent browning during dehydration and adds a slight tangy flavor to your dried mangos.
7. Arrange the slices on drying trays: Make sure not to overlap mango slices on your dehydrator trays or baking sheets. Leave some space between each slice for proper airflow during drying.
8. Set up your dehydrator or oven: If using a dehydrator, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for fruit dehydration – generally around 135°F (57°C). If using an oven, set it at its lowest temperature (usually around 170°F / 77°C) and prop the door open slightly to allow moisture to escape.
9. Begin dehydrating: Place the trays in the dehydrator or oven, and let the mangos dry for 6-12 hours. The time will vary depending on your equipment and the thickness of your slices.
10. Check for doneness: The dried mango slices should be pliable and leathery when done, with no visible moisture remaining on the surface. To test for doneness, remove a slice from the heat source, let it cool, and bend it gently. If there is no moisture released and no stickiness, it’s done.
11. Cool and store: Once all mango slices are fully dried, allow them to cool completely before transferring them into an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Store in a cool, dark place to keep them fresh for several months.
By following these simple steps, you can easily dehydrate mangos at home and enjoy this tasty tropical treat all year round!