This collection of 22 Dehydrator Recipes is packed with options for your dehydrator including dried fruit and vegetables as well as more unique recipes you may not have thought of. Most of these recipes also have an oven option if you don't have a dehydrator.
Jump to:
- Why You'll Love These Recipes
- What's the Difference Between Dehydrated and Freeze-Dried?
- How to Store Dehydrated Food
- Expert Tips on Drying Food
- Equipment for These Recipes
- Dehydrated Fruit Recipes
- Dehydrated Vegetable Recipes
- Dehydrated Protein Recipes
- Other Dehydrated Food Recipes
- Dehydrated Dog Treat Recipes
Why You'll Love These Recipes
- These recipes walk you step-by-step through how to make the most easy and delicious dried foods.
- Most of these recipes also have an oven option is you don't have a dehydrator or don't want to use one.
- Dehydrated food can be stored for a long time.
- Homemade dried food is significantly cheaper when you make it yourself!
- These recipes make a great snack or addition to any meal and there are even some dog-friendly recipes for your furry friend!
What's the Difference Between Dehydrated and Freeze-Dried?
Dried and freeze-dried foods differ in processing, texture, and shelf life. Dried food is made using heat or air, resulting in a chewy texture, darker colors, and a shelf life of 6 months to a year.
Freeze-dried food is created by freezing and removing moisture through sublimation, preserving its shape, color, and nutrients. It lasts up to 25 years, rehydrates quickly, and closely resembles its fresh state but requires specialized equipment and is more expensive.
How to Store Dehydrated Food
Store dehydrated food in an airtight container, ensuring it’s completely cooled to prevent moisture inside. For longer storage, add desiccants (moisture control products) or oxygen absorbers and keep containers in a cool, dark, and dry place. Label with contents and date, and refrigerate or vacuum-seal high-fat foods for extra longevity.
Expert Tips on Drying Food
- Create evenly sized pieces that are also even in thickness for the best drying results. You want everything to dry at the same rate.
- Check on the dehydrating food a few hours in to check for progress as well as flip the pieces to ensure even drying.
- Most dehydrated foods will shrink and stiffen slightly after cooling.
- If you make your slices too thin or too small, once the food dehydrates it will likely stick to the dehydrator tray so take that into account when preparing the food.
Equipment for These Recipes
I like using a dehydrator to dry food because it's inexpensive and easy to use. I use the Nesco Dehydrator which is a great choice for beginners and experienced cooks alike.
If you need something larger, the Cosori Dehydrator is a fantastic option. It’s a bit pricier but offers extra features and operates much more quietly.
Dehydrated Fruit Recipes
Dried fruit has many uses including a quick and healthy snack, a topping for salad or a dessert. And, an even more unique use, is a garnish for a cocktail!
Dehydrated Vegetable Recipes
Not everyone thinks of vegetables when they think of dried food but they can come in handy in many ways. They make a great topping for a salad, can be added to soups and pasta, and can even be candied for a sweet and healthy treat!
Dehydrated Protein Recipes
One of the first recipes people make when they get a dehydrator is often beef jerky. Dried protein makes a great snack for camping, hiking, or just a mid-day protein pick-me-up.
Other Dehydrated Food Recipes
These unique and less common Dried Food Recipes could come in handy, especially if you cook a lot at home or want to live a more sustainable and clean lifestyle.
Dehydrated Dog Treat Recipes
I couldn't forget our four-legged friends when thinking of dried foods since a lot of their food comes in this form. If you have a dog at home and want to make them delicious and healthy treats, check out these recipes below.
If you get a chance to make any of these Dehydrator Recipes let me know! Tag me on Instagram or Facebook, or leave a review below! You can also follow me on Pinterest and sign up for my e-mail list to receive more recipes in your inbox.
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