Temperature; Time; Testing For Dryness; Storage - Excalibur EZDRY EVM Manual Del Usuario

TEMPERATURE

Follow the guide on the cover of the dehydrator for proper drying temperatures. If the heat
is too high, the food may "case harden" which means it will feel dry on the outside; yet inside,
it is still moist. If the heat is set too low, drying time and use of electricity is increased. Meats
and Fish should always be dried at the highest temperature setting.

TIME

Drying times vary depending on multiple factors. These factors include the amount of humidity
in the air, the moisture content of the food being dried and the method of preparation.
Halfway through the dehydration process, we suggest rotating the trays for even dehydration.
Humidity: Check with your local weather service to determine the day's humidity level. The
closer the humidity is to 100%, the longer it will take for your food to dry.
Moisture Content:
Water content of a fruit or vegetable can vary due to growing season,
rainfall and environmental factors, as well as the ripeness of the food. The more water, the
longer the drying time.
Slicing: Uniform, thin food slicing not more than 1/4" thick, spread evenly in a single layer on
the drying trays.

TESTING FOR DRYNESS

Remove a piece of food, let it cool. Fruits should be pliable, leathery or chip-like. Depending
on your preferences. Tear fruits in half, pinch and watch for moisture drops along tear. Fruit
rolls should be leathery with no sticky spots. Vegetables should be tough or crisp. Meat and
fish jerky should be tough, not brittle.

STORAGE

Containers for dried foods should be safe from moisture and insects. Glass jars with tightly fitted
lids, plastic zip-lock and vacuum/heat-sealable bags are recommended storage containers.
Food-safe metal cans, such as coffee cans or cookie tins, may be used to store individual bags
for extra protection. Store in a cool, dark and dry area at 50º - 60ºF/10º - 16ºC.

RECONSTITUTION

Reconstituting dried foods adds yet another dimension to the versatility of daily food
preparation. Properly dried foods rehydrate well. They return practically to their original size,
form and appearance. There are several methods of reconstituting dehydrated food, including
soaking foods in water or juice, placing food in boiling water, cooking, or using an electric
steamer. It is important to remember not to add salt, sugar or spices during the initial five
minutes of reconstitution as these additives hinder the absorption process.
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