How To Dehydrate Orange Peels In Air Fryer

Do you find yourself throwing away orange peels after enjoying a juicy orange? Did you know that you can actually repurpose those peels and turn them into a delicious and versatile ingredient? Dehydrated orange peels can be used in a variety of ways, such as adding a tangy flavor to dishes, infusing oils, or even as a natural air freshener.

The air fryer is a convenient and efficient tool to dehydrate orange peels. Not only does it save time, but it also preserves the vibrant flavors and natural aroma of the orange peels. It works by circulating hot air around the peels, drying them out slowly and evenly, resulting in perfectly dehydrated orange peels that can be stored for future use.

To dehydrate orange peels in an air fryer, start by washing and thoroughly drying the oranges. Peel off the orange skin, making sure to remove any white pith as it can impart a bitter taste. Cut the peels into strips or small pieces for faster drying. Preheat the air fryer to the lowest setting and place the orange peels in a single layer on the tray or basket. Allow them to dehydrate for about 2-3 hours, or until they are dry and brittle to the touch.

Once the orange peels are dehydrated, let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for several months, and you can simply rehydrate them with water when needed for various recipes. These dehydrated orange peels will add a burst of citrus flavor to your cooking and can be used in teas, baked goods, or even as a garnish.

What You’ll Need

Before you begin dehydrating orange peels in an air fryer, make sure you have the following items:

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1. Oranges	– Make sure you have fresh, ripe oranges. Choose oranges with bright orange skin and avoid any that have wrinkled or discolored skin.
2. Air Fryer	– You will need an air fryer to dehydrate the orange peels. Make sure your air fryer has a dehydrating function or setting.
3. Knife or Zester	– You will need a sharp knife or zester to remove the outer peel from the oranges. A zester is recommended for easier peeling.
4. Cutting Board	– A cutting board will provide a stable surface for peeling the oranges and will protect your countertop or work area from any juices.
5. Parchment Paper or Silicone Mat	– To prevent the orange peels from sticking to the air fryer basket, you will need parchment paper or a silicone mat. Air Delights Mandarin Orange Micro 3000 Air Freshener Refill, 2.6oz (Case of 12) $74.99 Check Price Amazon.com Amazon price updated: April 5, 2025 11:17 am
6. Storage Container	– Once the orange peels are dehydrated, you will need a storage container to keep them fresh. Choose an airtight container to preserve their flavor and texture.

Now that you have gathered all the necessary items, you are ready to start dehydrating orange peels in your air fryer!

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these simple steps to dehydrate orange peels in an air fryer:

Preheat your air fryer to 135 degrees Celsius (275 degrees Fahrenheit).
Wash the oranges thoroughly to remove any dirt or pesticides from the peel.
Use a sharp knife to carefully remove the peel from the oranges in long, thin strips.
Place the orange peels in a single layer on the air fryer tray or basket, making sure they don’t overlap.
Set the timer for 2 hours and start the air fryer.
After 1 hour, gently flip the orange peels to ensure even drying.
Continue cooking for the remaining hour or until the peels are completely dry and crisp.
Once the orange peels are dehydrated, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool completely.
Store the dehydrated orange peels in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.

Now you have delicious and fragrant dehydrated orange peels that you can use in various recipes!

Tips and Tricks

When dehydrating orange peels in an air fryer, it’s important to follow a few tips and tricks to ensure the best results:

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1. Choose ripe oranges

Using ripe oranges will yield the most flavorful and fragrant orange peels. Look for oranges that are firm and heavy with vibrant orange color.

2. Wash the oranges well

Before peeling and dehydrating, make sure to give the oranges a good wash to remove any dirt or pesticides that might be on the peels.

3. Use a sharp peeler

A sharp peeler will make it easier and quicker to remove the orange peels. A dull peeler can lead to uneven and thicker peels.

4. Remove the pith

The pith, the white part between the peel and the fruit, can be bitter. Make sure to remove as much of it as possible before dehydrating the orange peels.

5. Cut the peels into even strips

Cutting the orange peels into even strips will ensure that they dry out evenly in the air fryer.

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6. Preheat the air fryer

Preheating the air fryer for a few minutes before adding the orange peels will help to speed up the dehydration process.

7. Arrange the peels in a single layer

Make sure to arrange the orange peels in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Overlapping or crowding the peels will prevent them from drying out properly.

8. Check on the peels regularly

Keep an eye on the orange peels while they are drying in the air fryer. They can dry out quickly, so check on them regularly to prevent them from burning.

9. Store properly

Once the orange peels are dehydrated, store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. They should last for several months.

Uses for Dehydrated Orange Peels

Dehydrated orange peels can be a versatile ingredient, providing unique flavors and aromas to various dishes and products. Here are some fantastic ways you can use dehydrated orange peels:

Culinary Uses

Add dried orange peels to tea blends for an extra burst of citrusy flavor.
Grind dehydrated orange peels into a powder and use it as a seasoning for savory dishes like roasted chicken or stir-fries.
Infuse olive oil with dried orange peels to create a citrus-infused oil perfect for salad dressings or drizzling over dishes.
Make your own orange extract by soaking dehydrated orange peels in vodka, then use it to enhance the flavor of cakes, cookies, and other baked goods.
Add a pinch of ground dehydrated orange peels to marinades and rubs for meats to add a citrusy kick.

Household Uses

Create a natural air freshener by placing dried orange peels in a bowl or sachet.
Use dehydrated orange peels as kindling for starting fires in your fireplace or campfire.
Mix ground dried orange peels with baking soda to create a homemade, citrus-scented cleaning scrub.
Place dried orange peels in your vacuum cleaner bag to freshen the air as you clean.

With their intense flavor and delightful fragrance, dehydrated orange peels can add a unique touch to both culinary creations and household solutions. Get creative and explore all the possibilities that these versatile peels have to offer!

FAQ

Can I dehydrate orange peels in an air fryer?

Yes, you can dehydrate orange peels in an air fryer. It is a quick and easy method to preserve orange peels and use them in various culinary applications.

How long does it take to dehydrate orange peels in an air fryer?

The time required to dehydrate orange peels in an air fryer can vary depending on the thickness of the peels and the temperature setting of the air fryer. On average, it takes about 2-3 hours at a temperature of 120 degrees Celsius.