Name: Dehydrating Plums
Ingredients: Plums

As an Amazon Associate Dehydrator Living earns from qualifying purchases.

If you’re a fan of tasty, chewy, and ridiculously addictive snacks, you’re in for a treat. Let’s talk about dehydrated plums – those sweet, tangy wonders that have taken snacking to a whole new level. From the wholesome health benefits to the magic of turning plump and juicy plums into delightful bites, we’ve got you covered. So, get ready to embark on a journey of flavor, fun, and fabulousness as you learn all about dehydrating plums in a food dehydrator!

Health Benefits of Plums

First things first, let’s chat about why these chewy morsels are more than just a delightful snack. Plums are like nature’s candy with some seriously awesome health perks. Some health benefits include:

Fiber: When it comes to keeping things moving smoothly in your digestive system, fiber is your best friend. These dried plums are packed with dietary fiber, which not only helps prevent constipation but also supports overall gut health.

Vitamins: These dried beauties are still loaded with essential vitamins, like vitamin K, which supports bone health, and vitamin A, which keeps your skin glowing. Who knew snacking could be so nourishing?

Antioxidant: Plums are rich in antioxidants that help fight off harmful free radicals in your body. These little warriors contribute to overall well-being and may even help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Things To Consider Before You Begin

Before you dive into the dehydrate plums adventure, here are a few things to keep in mind:

You’ll want to be sure to select the right plums. Opt for ripe plums that are firm yet slightly yielding to the touch. They’ll give you that perfect balance of sweetness and flavor.
To ensure even drying, slice your plums into consistent pieces, about 1/4 inch thick. This way, you’ll end up with chewy goodness in every bite.

Preparing The Plums for Dehydration

Let’s get those plums ready for their transformation from juicy to chewy:

Wash and Pit: Give your plums a good wash to remove any dirt or residue. Cut them in half and remove the pits. If you prefer to leave them whole, you totally can – it just might take a little longer to dry.

Slice with Style: If you’re slicing, make sure your knife skills are on point. Aim for uniform slices, and remember, practice makes perfect!

Dehydrating The Plums: Step by Step

After you’ve gone through the previous prepping steps, here’s how to dry plums in a dehydrator:

Spread the Love: Lay out your prepared plum slices on the dehydrator trays. Leave a bit of space between each slice to allow air to circulate. Proper airflow equals optimal drying.

Time to Dehydrate: Set your food dehydrator to around 135°F. This gentle heat will work its magic and slowly remove the moisture from the plums. Depending on the thickness of your slices and the humidity in your area, this can take anywhere from 12 to 24 hours.

Check for Doneness: Your dried plums are ready when they’re still pliable but not sticky. They should feel like chewy candy – no moisture left inside.

Ideas on How to Use Dehydrated Plums

Now that you’ve mastered the art of dehydrating plums, it’s time to dive into the fun part – enjoying them in various ways:

Snack: Dehydrated plums are a snacking dream come true. Grab a handful and munch away guilt-free. It’s like nature’s candy, minus the added sugar!

Baking: Chop up your dehydrated plums and toss them into muffins, cookies, or bread for a burst of sweet, chewy goodness. They add a touch of magic to your baked treats.

Trail Mix: Create your own custom trail mix by combining dehydrated plums with nuts, seeds, and other dried fruits. It’s the perfect on-the-go snack that’s both energizing and delicious.

Smoothie: Drop a few dried plums into your blender when whipping up a smoothie. They’ll add natural sweetness and a unique twist of flavor to your drink.

There are so many other ways you can incorporate your new creation, like in this peanut butter cookies with dried plums treat. So have fun exploring the tons of dried plums recipes out there.

Storing Your Dehydrated Plums

You’ve nailed the art of dehydrating, and now you need to ensure those plum delights stay fresh.

Before you store your dried plums, make sure they’ve cooled down completely. Any lingering warmth can create unwanted moisture in your storage container.

Transfer your dried plums into airtight containers – think glass jars or resealable bags. This keeps them safe from moisture and extends their shelf life.

Find a cool, dark spot for your plum-packed containers. Sunlight and humidity can mess with the texture and flavor, and we don’t want that!

With their chewy goodness, natural sweetness, and health benefits, these little delights are perfect for snacking, baking, and everything in between. So, whether you’re on a road trip, need a quick energy boost, or simply want to enjoy a guilt-free treat, your dehydrated plums are always ready to deliver. So, go ahead and slice, dehydrate, and enjoy your new found chewy plum perfection!