G'day, mates!
Here at Airdd's blog. Today, we're going to journey into the fantastic world of dried lemon slices. Not only are they a versatile addition to your meals and beverages, but they're also incredibly easy to make at home, using just your oven. Plus, they're chockers full of concentrated lemony flavour and aroma. So, let's crack on, shall we?
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
You'll need:
- Fresh lemons: The amount depends on how many dried slices you want, but a couple should do for starters.
- A sharp knife: For thinly slicing your lemons.
- A baking tray: To hold your lemon slices in the oven.
- Baking paper: To line your tray and prevent the lemon slices from sticking.
Step 2: Prep Your Lemons
Give your lemons a good wash under cold water. Thinly slice the lemons, aiming for about 1/4 inch thickness or less. The thinner the slices, the quicker they'll dry out in the oven. Remove any seeds as you go to avoid any bitterness.
Step 3: Arrange Your Lemon Slices
Preheat your oven to a very low temperature - around 90-100°C is good. Line your baking tray with baking paper, then arrange your lemon slices on the tray. Make sure none of them are overlapping; they need space for the hot air to circulate.
Step 4: Dry Your Lemon Slices
Pop your tray into the preheated oven. Now, patience is key here! The drying process is going to take anywhere between 2-4 hours, depending on how thin your slices are and how juicy your lemons were. Be sure to check them every half hour to avoid any burning. They're done when they've lost all their moisture and are completely dry, but not browned.
Step 5: Cool and Store Your Lemon Slices
Once they're done, let them cool completely on the tray. Once cool, store your dried lemon slices in an airtight container, away from light and heat.
And there you have it! Your very own homemade dried lemon slices. These vibrant, flavourful slices can be used to jazz up a myriad of dishes and drinks, from teas and cocktails to baked goods and stews. Plus, they're a real ripper for DIY projects too!
We hope you enjoyed this guide and are inspired to try drying your own lemon slices. Remember, the key to success is patience, so take it easy, and you'll have a stash of these versatile pantry staples in no time.
We'll be back with more culinary adventures and hacks. Until then, happy drying!
Cheers, Airdd