When dehydrating oranges in a dehydrator, the time it takes for them to dry completely can vary depending on a few factors. These factors include the thickness of the orange slices, the humidity in your environment, and the temperature setting on your dehydrator.
To begin the process, start by arranging the orange slices on the dehydrator trays, making sure to leave enough room for air circulation. It's important to ensure that the slices are evenly spaced apart to allow for proper drying.
Next, set your dehydrator to the appropriate temperature. For oranges, a setting of 135 degrees Fahrenheit is typically recommended, as this is the fruit/vegetable setting on most dehydrators. This temperature allows the oranges to dry out without getting too hot and losing their flavor and nutritional value.
Once you have set the temperature, it's time to start checking on the orange slices. The drying time can vary depending on the thickness of the slices. Thicker slices will take longer to dry compared to thinner ones.
After about 2 to 3 hours, start checking the orange slices for dryness. Gently touch them to see if they feel leathery and no longer have any moisture. You can also try bending the slices to check if they are pliable or if they break easily, which indicates that they are dry.
If the slices are not yet fully dry, continue dehydrating them for another hour or two and then check again. Repeat this process until the orange slices are completely dried.
The total drying time can range from 3 to 7 hours, depending on the factors mentioned earlier. Thicker slices or higher humidity levels may require longer drying times. It's important to be patient and regularly check on the progress of the oranges to avoid over-drying or under-drying them.
During the drying process, you may notice that the orange slices shrink and become more concentrated in flavor. This is normal and is a result of the moisture being removed from the fruit.
In my personal experience, I have found that thinner slices tend to dry more quickly, usually within 3 to 5 hours, while thicker slices can take closer to 6 to 7 hours. However, it's essential to keep an eye on them and adjust the drying time accordingly, as every dehydrator may vary slightly.
To summarize, the time it takes to dehydrate oranges in a dehydrator can range from 3 to 7 hours, depending on the thickness of the slices, humidity levels, and the temperature setting. Regularly check the orange slices for dryness and adjust the drying time as needed. Enjoy the process and savor the delicious, dried orange slices that result from your efforts.