Content

• To step
• Tips
• Warnings
• Necessities

Drying chilies is an ideal way to save a bountiful crop or leftovers for later use. Dried chilies are versatile and when properly dried, you can make them absorb moisture later by placing them in water. In any way, drying chilies complements the use of this special vegetable. How to properly dry chilies depends on a number of factors such as air flow, weather and humidity. Choose a method suitable for your situation for the best result.

To step

1. Preheat the oven to 79 degrees Celsius. In a hot-air oven, the temperature does not have to be higher than 40ºC.
2. Hang the peppers in a well-ventilated area. Let them dry for at least 3 weeks.

Tips

• You can also freeze peppers well.
• Keep the doors open as much as possible while the chilies are drying.
• You can also dry the chili seeds in the same way as the chilies. You can grind the seeds in a pepper mill or blender, and use them to spice up recipes or meals in the same way as red pepper flakes.
• When putting chilies out to dry in the sun, start as early as possible in the morning on the first day to take advantage of the most sunlight.
• Drying time depends on the size of the chilies.
• If you're hanging the peppers to dry, you'll need a screened porch or other well-ventilated area where wind and air can flow freely.
• If you put the baking tray on the roof of a car or the back of a pick-up, this can speed up the drying process. These areas get very hot in the sun and the reflective surface will heat the baking tray from the bottom.
• A food dehydrator can be used to dry chili peppers. Follow the manufacturer's directions.

Warnings

• Consider wearing gloves (maybe even glasses) when working with peppers. The peppers can be very pungent and irritate your eyes, skin, and hands.

Necessities

• Chili peppers
• Baking tray
• Knife
• Gloves (possibly)
• Safety or protective glasses (if applicable)
• Sheet or towel (optional)
• Oven (optional)
• Carpet needle (optional)
• Fishing line (optional)
• Wooden spoon (optional)