How to Use a Microwave Oven As a Dehydrator

Using a microwave oven as a dehydrator is an effective way to dry and preserve low moisture foods, such as herbs, mushrooms and citrus peels. Commercial food dehydrators are available for this preservation method, but many American homes already contain handy microwave ovens. Dehydrating foods is an excellent way to save money when you run across bargains on produce and herbs. Dried foods take up little space and have a long shelf life.

Tape measure
Scissors
White paper towels
Herbs
Measuring cup
Small, airtight containers
Citrus fruit (optional)
Kitchen grater (optional)
Mushrooms (optional)
Sharp knife (optional)

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the inside of your microwave oven and cut a piece of cardboard to fit inside the appliance. If the microwave has a turntable, cut the cardboard to fit it.
- 2
  Cover the cardboard with two layers of white paper towels.
- 3
  Wash the herbs you want to dehydrate. Allow them to drain on paper towels and then blot them gently with a dry paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- 4
  Place the herbs in a circle on the covered cardboard, leaving the center empty. Put it into the microwave.
- 5
  Set the microwave power to high and turn it on. Dehydrate 1 cup of herbs for approximately three or four minutes or until they are dry and brittle-looking. Twice that amount of herbs takes between five and six minutes, 3 cups dehydrate in approximately seven to eight minutes. Allow 10 to 11 minutes for 5 cups of herbs.
- 6
  Crush the dehydrated herbs finely before storing them in an airtight container. Use about 1 tsp. of dried herbs in a recipe that calls for 1 tbsp. of fresh herbs.

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Microwave Ovens