Weston Realtree OUTFITTERS 75-0301-RT Mode D'emploi page 8

TIPS
• Do not overlap foods. Lay foods flat on the Dehydrating Trays.
• Check dryness after 6 hours, then check every 2 hours until crisp, pliable or
leathery depending on the product.
• Check foods to make sure they are completely dry before removing. Open or cut
down the middle of a few samples to check internal dryness. If the food is still moist,
dehydrate longer.
• Label each container with the food name, date of drying and the original weight.
Keep a journal to help improve drying techniques.
• Proper storage is essential to maintain quality food. Package the food when
cool. Foods can be kept longer if stored in a cool, dark, dry place. The ideal storage
temperature is 60 F (16 C) or lower.
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• Place dried foods in plastic freezer bags before storing in metal or glass containers.
Remove as much air as possible before sealing.
• Vacuum sealing is ideal for keeping dried foods.
• Remember, foods will shrink approximately 1/4 to 1/2 their original size and weight
during the dehydration process, so pieces should not be cut too small. One pound of
raw meat will yield approximately 1/3 lb. (0.2 kg) to 1/2 lb. (0.2 kg) of jerky.
• Use the Drying Guide on the Control Panel as a reference for proper temperature
settings. If the heat is set too high, food may harden and dry on the outside...yet be
moist on the inside. If the temperature is too low, the drying time will increase.
RE-HYDRATING
While it is not necessary to reconstitute your dried foods, you can do so with ease.
Vegetables can be used as a side dish or in recipes very effectively after being
reconstituted in the following way.
• Dehydrated food can be re-hydrated by soaking in cold water for 3-5 minutes.
Use 1 cup of water for 1 cup of dehydrated food. Once re-hydrated, the food can be
cooked normally. Soaking foods in warm water will speed up the process, however,
it may result in loss of flavor.
• Dehydrated fruits and vegetables can be soaked in cold water for 2-6 hours in the
refrigerator. WARNING! Soaking at room temperature allows harmful bacteria
to grow.
• Do not add seasoning. Adding salt or sugar during re-hydration may change the
flavor of the food.
• To make stewed fruits or vegetables, add 2 cups of water and simmer until tender.
• Consume dehydrated foods as soon as possible once the storage container is
opened. Keep any unused portions in the refrigerator to avoid contamination.
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