Posted by Karen on November 15, 2000 at 20:47:07:
In Reply to: drying lemons for decor posted by cinda on November 14, 2000 at 14:23:55:
To dry whole CITRUS fruits make a slit pole to pole just cutting through the skin. Place foil liner in
the bottom of oven.
Gas oven -- 150 degrees for 24 hrs, opening door ocassionally to release moisture.
Electric oven-- lowest setting or warm for 24 hrs opening door as with gas oven.
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To dry oranges, lemons and limes: Place a thin layer of silica gel on a
cookie sheet. Place the orange, lemon and lime slices (about ¼”
thick) on top of the gel. Use the same baking procedure described for
the apples. Bake eight to ten hours in a 200 degrees oven with door
ajar. Turn occasionally for even baking. Remove from oven and let
cool completely. Brush off any silica gel that may be attached.
The items can be stored for 6 to 12 months. Check periodically to
make sure no moisture has gotten to the fruit. If this happens, just
bake again for about fifteen minutes at 200 degrees, door ajar. If you
see any discoloration or mold, dispose of the items.