Drying Figs (Easy Dehydrator Recipe)

Dehydrator Figs

1. Choose your favorite ripe figs that are soft, but not mushy.
2. Wash the figs to remove any dirt or debris. If they are extra dirty, soak in a bowl of water for about 5 minutes.
3. Drain the figs in a colander and gently dry the figs with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
4. Remove the stems with a sharp knife, and slice the figs in half, quarters, rings or leave them whole.
5. Place the figs skin side down on the dehydrator drying rack in a single layer without the figs touching each other. Place the lid on top and turn the dehydrator on 135°F. The drying time will vary on the thickness of the figs. Your dried figs should be dry to the touch and pliable. Whole figs can take up to 24 hours or longer to dry.
6. Cool before placing in a glass jar or airtight container.

Oven Dried Figs

1. Follow steps 1-4 above. You will need a baking sheet(s), parchment paper, or a silicone mat.
2. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy clean-up.
3. Place the cleanly sliced figs in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets. Ensure that they are not touching to allow for even drying.
4. Preheat your oven (10-15 minutes) to the lowest temperature possible, which is usually around 140°F.
5. Place the baking sheet(s)in the oven. Keep the oven door slightly ajar so that the moisture will escape as well as the heat if your oven's lowest temperature is over 140°F.
6. Check for doneness every 2-4 hours for up to 24 hours, and rotate the baking trays to ensure the figs dry evenly.
7. Cool before placing in a glass jar or airtight container.