Vine fruits such as grapes. Note that grapes produce different types of dried fruits: Zante currants come from from a tiny, seedless black grape; sultanas come from a sweet, seedless green/white grape; and raisins come from large, sweet grapes such as muscat. [1] X Research source Tree fruits such as stone fruit (apricots, peaches, plums, nectarines), mangoes, bananas, apples, figs, dates and pears.
For small vine fruits, like berries or grapes, you could place the fruit in a colander and rinse it that way.
Grapes or berries with inner seeds might need be sliced in halves and de-seeded. [4] X Research source You should also trim away any stems or leaves at this time.
If using a dehydrator, place the fruit on a dehydrator tray instead of using a parchment-lined cooking sheet. If rack drying outdoors, place the fruit on your drying rack instead of using a cooking sheet.
The drying process will take several hours by necessity; do not try to increase heat to speed up drying process, since doing so will burn the fruit and make it inedible.
The humidity should also be below 60 percent while you dry, and the weather should be both sunny and breezy.
Most wood trays also work, but avoid green wood, pine, cedar, oak, and redwood. Also avoid using hardware cloth (galvanized metal cloth).
It’s important to keep the trays off moist ground. Setting them on blocks also improves air flow and speeds drying. Consider placing a tin or aluminum sheet beneath the tray to reflect more sunlight and speed drying. Covering the trays will protect them from birds and insects. Move the trays under shelter at night since the cool evening air can introduce moisture back into the fruit.
Begin checking the fruit after the first 24 hours to prevent it from over-drying. Afterward, check on it every 6 to 8 hours.
