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Skip Pallesen
Retired Chemist
Asked a question 4 years ago

I started dehydrating my peppers in my oven and then I purchased a Nesco dehydrator about ten years ago. It works great but it is slow, eight to eighteen hours. I recently read about dehydrating peppers in an air fryer in less time. Has anyone tried this method?

Share a photo of your favorite pepper, to eat, grow, whatever! And let us know what it is. 🌶

I did it. Let me tell you how I did the preparation:

Preparation: Wash your peppers and dry them. If they're spicy, use gloves to avoid unpleasant surprises on your skin.

Cutting: Then, slice them into pieces about 1/4 inch thick (approximately 0.6 cm).

Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to the lowest temperature, usually around 125-135°F (51-57°C).

Loading the air fryer: Place the pepper slices in the basket, side by side, without overcrowding.

Dehydrating: Activate the dehydrate function, which is typically between 120-160°F (49-71°C). The lower the temperature, the more flavor and nutrients you'll preserve.

Check it every now and then: Depending on your air fryer and the thickness of the slices, the process can take from 2 to 4 hours. So, keep an eye on them to prevent over-drying.

Storage: When they're ready, let them cool before storing them in airtight containers or Ziplock bags. Keep them in a cool, dark place.

Extra tips:

  • Experiment with different types and sizes of peppers to find your favorite flavor and spice level.
  • If you want to rehydrate your dried peppers, soak them in warm water for a few minutes before using.
  • Don't throw away the seeds; you can save them and plant them to grow your own peppers.

So, there you have it, buddy. I hope you enjoy your air fryer-dried peppers! They're perfect for adding that spicy kick to your meals. Bon appétit!