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canning supplies as well. Mix 1 tablespoon in four cups of water and soak the fruit for
about two minutes. Like lemon juice, the taste can be quite overpowering, so
experiment with concentrations and soaking times.
Sodium Bisulfite
Sodium Bisulfite can be purchased at your local pharmacy. If you or anyone who will
be eating the food has any known chemical allergies, you should check with your
physician before using this chemical. Be certain to ask for food grade (safe) product
only. Mix 1 teaspoon of Sodium Bisulfite in 1 quart of water. Dip the sliced fruit the
solution for a few minutes. Remove, drain and place on the dehydrator tray.
Fruit Leather Dehydration Tips
Sometimes referred to as Fruit Rolls, Fruit Strips, or Fruit Jerky, fruit that is pureed
and dried in thin sheets becomes a tasty, chewy, candy-like snack we call fruit leather.
You have probably sampled the commercial versions from the market, but once
you’ve tasted it made fresh at home with quality fruit, you’ll never go back to store
bought! Fruit leather is a good way to make use of leftover or overripe fruit that might
otherwise be discarded.
Making fruit leather is very easy. Start by thoroughly washing the fruit in cold water
and remove any stems or leaves left on the fruit. Remove the peel, skin, pits, or seeds
as necessary. Then just puree the fruit or fruit combination of your choice, and add
just enough liquid to the blender to make a smooth thick puree. Honey, fruit juice or
water can be used but don’t make the mixture too thin or it won’t stay put on the
dehydrator shelf. With fruits that have a high moisture level little or no liquid needs be
added at all.
Since you are the cook, you get to taste the puree as you are making it. It is not only
your privilege, but an important part of the process. If the puree tastes good, the
leather will taste even better! Remember that the flavors and sweetness will
concentrate when the leather is dry, so don’t make it too sweet!
It is best to use a fruit leather sheet designed for this purpose, but if not available, you
