How to dry apricots in a few steps

Drying apricots is a great way to preserve this fruit for longer periods and enjoy its benefits all year round. Drying apricots at home is a relatively simple process and requires only a few steps. In this article, we will guide you through the process of drying apricots, allowing you to prepare a great supply of this sweet, dehydrated fruit for future use.

Step 1 – Choose the right apricots

For drying, it is important to select apricots that are ripe but still firm. Look for apricots that are soft to the touch, but not too soft or broken through.

Step 2 – Preparation

Wash the apricots thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or pesticide residue. Dry them gently with a clean cloth or paper towels.

Step 3 – Carving and pitting

Cut the apricots in half and remove the stone. If you prefer, you can also cut them into slices or wedges, depending on your personal preference.

Step 4 – Choosing the drying method

There are several ways to dry apricots, including air drying, sun drying, and using a food dryer.

• Open-air drying: arrange the apricot slices on a grill or flat surface, making sure they do not overlap. Place the grill in a well-ventilated, dry place, such as a kitchen countertop or table, and let the apricots air-dry naturally in the open air. This method takes longer, usually 3 to 5 days, depending on the ambient humidity.
• Sun drying: place apricot slices on a grill or flat surface and place them in direct sunlight in a sunny area of your home or garden. Be sure to protect the apricots from insects by covering them with a net or breathable cloth. Sun-drying time varies depending on the intensity of the sun and the humidity in the air, but generally takes 2 to 4 days.
• Using a food dryer: follow your food dryer’s specific instructions for drying apricots. Typically, you will simply arrange the apricot slices on the dryer grates and set the drying temperature and time recommended by the manufacturer. This method offers precise control over temperature and humidity, allowing for uniform and quick results. Drying time will vary depending on the model of the dryer and ambient humidity, but will usually take between 6 and 12 hours.

Step 5 – Monitoring the drying process

During the drying process, regularly check the condition of the apricots. Dried slices should be pliable but not sticky to the touch. Make sure they are completely dry before storing them.

Step 6 – Conservation

Once the apricots are fully dried, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to airtight containers or sealable food bags. Store dried apricots in a cool, dark, dry place. If stored properly, dried apricots can last up to a year.