Chilli is an essential ingredient in many dishes around the world. They come in various colours and sizes and are famous for their unique aroma and flavour. Drying chillies is a great way to preserve them for use throughout the year. They can be stored for a long time without losing their quality and taste. If you are thinking about drying chilli, then you have come to the right place. In this post, we will discuss how to dry chilli effectively.
Gather Your Supplies
Before you begin the process of drying chillies, it would be best to ensure that you have all the necessary supplies. You will require a dehydrator, a pair of gloves, and the fresh chillies you want to dry.
Preparing The Chillies
The first step in drying chillies is to prepare them for drying. Begin by selecting firm and fresh chillies. Avoid any with spots or signs of rot or decay. Rinse them in cool water and dry them using a paper towel. Be sure to wear gloves to protect your hands from the chilli's heat.
Cutting The Chillies
There are a few ways to cut the chillies. You can slice them in half, cut them into small pieces or keep them whole. Choosing how to cut the chillies is a matter of preference, but it's essential to maintain consistency in size so that they dry at the same time.
Removing The Seeds
You can either leave the seeds in or remove them. Seeds contribute to the heat and spiciness of the chillies. If you want to reduce the heat level, then it's best to remove them. However, if you prefer your dried chillies to be as hot as possible, then leave them in.
Drying The Chillies
There are various ways to dry chillies, including air-drying, oven-drying, and using a dehydrator. A dehydrator is the most efficient way to dry chillies, but if you don't have one, you can dry them in the oven or air dry them.
Dehydrator
To use a dehydrator, arrange the sliced chillies in a single layer on the tray. Place the tray in the dehydrator and set the temperature to around 54°C. The drying process takes between 8-12 hours, depending on the thickness of the chillies.
Oven
If you don't have a dehydrator, you can dry chillies in an oven. Preheat the oven to the lowest temperature (usually around 65°C) and place the chillies on a baking tray. Allow them to dry for 6-8 hours, turning them occasionally so that they dry evenly.
Air Drying
Air drying is the simplest method of drying chillies. Arrange the sliced chillies on a baking sheet and place them in a dry, sunny spot. Turn them occasionally and allow them to dry for several days. Once they are completely dry, transfer them to an airtight container.
Storing The Dried Chillies
Proper storage is vital to maintain the quality and flavour of the dried chillies. Store them in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Label the container with the date of drying and the type of chilli. Dried chillies can remain fresh for six to twelve months.
Conclusion
Drying chillies is an excellent way to preserve them for use in cooking throughout the year. Using a dehydrator is the most efficient way of drying chillies, but you can also dry them in an oven or air dry them. Proper storage is crucial to ensure that the chillies remain fresh and flavourful for several months. By following the steps outlined in this post, you can get started with drying chillies for your cooking needs.