West Bend Back to Basics FD-600 - Manual (Page 6)

DRYING FRUITS
Wash fmits well and remove any bruised or overripe portions. Peel if
desired. Larger fruits may be halved or quartered. If pieces of fruit vary
in size, they may be sliced 1/4 to 3/8 inch thick for more even drying.
Smaller fruits such as grapes and cherries may be dried whole. Remove
pits or stones from fruits such as prunes, cherries, apricots, etc.
Fruits that have been artificially waxed to prevent moisture loss should
always be peeled. Peeling is optional with other fruits. Dried pear skins
tend to be grainy and peach peels are a little fuzzy.
Most fruits can be placed directly on the drying trays as they are
prepared...pineapples, grapes, strawberries, prunes, etc.
However, apples, apricots, bananas, peaches and pears turn brown
when the cut surfaces are exposed to the air due to oxidation and the
reaction of enzymes. These fruits may be pretreated (explained below)
to slow b'^owning and to prevent loss of Vitamins A and C.
PRETREATMENTS FOR FRUIT
You need not pretreat fruit in order to dry it. However, pretreatment
often makes fruit look better, increases the shelf life and can even
enhance the nutritional value of some foods. Experiment with both
treated and untreated food to see which will best suit your needs.
Remember, proper storage is critical to the quality of the stored product
whether treated or untreated.
NATURAL PRETREATMENTS
Use pineapple , lemon, orange or lime juice as a natural alternative to
other pretreatments to reduce browning. Slipe fruit directly into juice.
Remove promptly (about 2 minutes) and place on trays. Fruits may also
be dipped in honey, spices, jello powders or sprinkled with coconut to
give them a delicious dried flavor. Use your imagination and make your
own flavored dip.
ASCORBIC ACID-CITRIC ACID
These two acids help to prevent browning. Dissolve 2 tablespoons of
ascorbic acid and 2 tablespoons of citric acid in 1 gallon of water. Dip
cut fruits into solution for no more than 2 minutes. Drain, then
Immediately place on tray to dry.