It's no secret that traditional methods of storing crops, such as canning, involve the use of substances that are not always beneficial to the human body - vinegar and salt. It is much more beneficial to use dried foods for eating. And having tried to dry Jerusalem artichoke at home, you will see that you have received a boost of vivacity from its use, provided that the product is natural
Drying specifics
Jerusalem artichoke, Jerusalem artichoke, or Jerusalem artichoke is a product that is once again gaining popularity among modern consumers. The tubers of this plant, which is native to North America, became widespread in Europe as early as the 17th century. They were used in food not only raw, but also fried, boiled and baked. Even today, Jerusalem artichoke can be used to make soup, mashed potatoes, and various salads. The pectin contained in the plant is added to jellies, jams, baby and diet foods.
In the USA, the plant began to dry, grind and use as a remedy. When dried, it retains all its original properties. It contains vitamins (A, B, C, PP). It is also rich in trace elements (zinc, magnesium, iron, potassium, etc.). In addition, dried Jerusalem artichoke is a source of proteins, fats and carbohydrates irreplaceable for the body.
Dry vegetables last much longer than raw tubers, which can be kept cool for just a couple of months. The dried tuber is used all year round.
It is possible to dry Jerusalem artichoke using all known drying methods. Before drying, the tubers are thoroughly cleaned and washed from the ground, removed with paper towels from excess moisture and cut into thin circles.
Ways to dry Jerusalem artichoke at home
Like any other vegetable, this vegetable is dried using popular home methods today. This can be done in the oven, electric dryer, microwave and outdoors. To understand the pros and cons of the presented methods, you need to consider each separately and in more detail.
How to cook in the oven
The process of drying Jerusalem artichoke in the oven is as follows:
- First, you need to cover the pre-prepared baking sheets with special baking paper and put thinly sliced tubers on them. It is desirable that they do not touch each other.
- Secondly, the slices are kept in the oven for about three hours at a temperature of 50 degrees, during which time part of the water from the cut tubers is evaporated.
- Thirdly, allow the pieces to cool for a day.
- Fourthly, after a day, the dried tubers are placed in the oven at 60 degrees until they are ready.
The disadvantage of this method is that in some cases it is not always possible to adjust the temperature correctly. To avoid this, it is better to carefully monitor the entire process. Of the advantages, it is worth noting the possibility of preserving all the useful qualities of Jerusalem artichoke to the maximum. These dried mugs will taste like chips.
How to get chips in an electric dryer
A modern dryer, for example, VOLTERA 1000 Lux, can significantly reduce the drying time of root crop circles. This method is considered the most ideal.
The advantage of dryers is that they have several sections and a temperature regulator. It is worth noting the fact that you need to follow the process only occasionally. All the necessary parameters and drying conditions are set in advance using the dashboard.
Unfortunately, in order to use this drying method, you need to additionally purchase this type of household appliance, if it is not currently available.
On open air
Drying Jerusalem artichoke using sunlight is the longest option. First, it will take four to five days to dry if the day is sunny. Even longer in cloudy weather. Secondly, during this time flies and midges can take a fancy to him. The process ends when all the liquid from the tubers has evaporated.
How to dry in the microwave
You can dry mugs of Jerusalem artichoke in the microwave. They taste like potato chips, just like when cooking in the oven.
The circles must be laid out on a plate in a thin layer and put for ten minutes at medium power. Then they need to be pulled out and turned over. Repeat the procedure one more time. This is the fastest way to dry the tuber of this plant. But it requires constant monitoring.
How to properly store and use dry root vegetables
It is recommended to store dried Jerusalem artichoke in a tightly closing container in places inaccessible to sunlight. It is better if the storage containers are made of glass or plastic.
Also, canvas bags tied with strings are perfect for this purpose. The room where the container will be located must be periodically ventilated.
Care must be taken to ensure that small insects are not kept in bags or boxes with drying.
In the future, dried Jerusalem artichoke tubers can be crushed using a coffee grinder. The prepared powder is added to various drinks: tea, coffee, even milk. In addition, it will not be superfluous in vitamin fees.
Jerusalem artichoke powder is very useful for people with diabetes, as it has a low glycemic index. The syrup, made from powder, has mild laxative properties. This drink normalizes the intestinal microflora.
The grated dried root vegetable is also used in cosmetology. Combined with other natural products such as honey or milk, it can be used to make anti-aging face masks.
Drying Jerusalem artichoke is not a very time-consuming process, but brings tangible benefits in the future. Any owner of this root vegetable can dry its tubers at any time. Dried earthen pears have the same qualities as fresh ones. A gentle drying method allows you to keep the original level of vitamins and minerals in it. Therefore, the house will always store a medicinal and nutritious product that can be used both inside the body and outside.
Also, you will be interested in reading our articles on methods of drying peppers and asparagus.