Can you dry mandarin orange slices?

Quick Answers

Yes, you can dry mandarin orange slices at home using a food dehydrator, oven, or air dry method. Drying concentrates the flavor and preserves the oranges. Dried mandarin oranges make a tasty, nutritious snack.

What are Mandarin Oranges?

Mandarin oranges, also known as tangerines, are a group of oranges belonging to the Citrus reticulata species. They are smaller and sweeter than regular oranges. The name “mandarin” comes from the traditional orange robes worn by mandarin dignitaries in China.

Some common varieties of mandarin oranges include:

• Clementines – The most common variety, smaller than tangerines with thin, shiny skin.
• Satsumas – Sweet, seedless varietal from Japan.
• Tangerines – Distinctive reddish-orange skin and tart flavor.
• Tangors – A tangerine-orange hybrid.

Compared to regular oranges, mandarin oranges have:

• Thinner, looser skin that’s easier to peel.
• More intense sweetness.
• Fewer seeds.
• Higher vitamin C content.

They grow best in warmer climates and are in peak season from autumn through early spring.

Nutrition Facts

Mandarin oranges are highly nutritious. Here are some of the main nutrients found in a 100g serving (3.5 ounces) of raw mandarin oranges:

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	53
Carbs	13g
Fiber	2g
Vitamin C	26.7mg (44% DV)
Thiamine	0.1mg (4% DV)
Folate	16μg (4% DV)
Potassium	166mg (4% DV)

Mandarin oranges are especially high in vitamin C, providing 44% of the Daily Value in just one serving.

Vitamin C is an antioxidant that supports immune health and helps make collagen for healthy skin and tissues.

They also contain the antioxidant carotenoids beta-cryptoxanthin, zeaxanthin, and lutein, which support eye health.

Benefits of Dried Mandarin Oranges

Drying concentrates the natural sugars and flavors of mandarin oranges, giving them an intensely sweet and tart taste.

Here are some benefits of dried mandarins compared to fresh:

• More portable for snacking and packing in lunches.
• Longer shelf life – lasts for months when stored properly.
• Higher concentration of nutrients like vitamin C.
• Intensified mandarin flavor.
• No need to peel – the drying process removes the skin.
• Can be used like raisins in recipes such as trail mixes, granola, salads, and baked goods.

The main drawback is that some of the vitamin C degrades during the drying process. However, dried mandarins still provide many nutrients and antioxidants.

Choosing Mandarins for Drying

Pick mandarins that are ripe but still firm. Overripe, mushy oranges don’t dry well.

Look for oranges with smooth, brightly colored skin. Avoid any with brown spots or soft spots.

Smaller mandarins like clementines dry more quickly and uniformly than larger varieties. But you can dry any type of mandarin orange.

Wash the fruit thoroughly before drying. You can leave the peels on or remove them – it’s up to you! Peels add fiber and take longer to dry.

How to Dry Mandarin Oranges

There are a few methods for drying mandarin oranges:

Using a Food Dehydrator

Food dehydrators provide the most controlled method for making dried mandarins. Follow these steps:

1. Wash oranges thoroughly and pat dry.
2. Slice into 1/4 to 1/2 inch rounds, removing any seeds as you go.
3. Arrange slices in a single layer on dehydrator trays, without overlapping.
4. Dehydrate at 135°F for 6-12 hours, until no moisture remains on the surface of the slices.
5. Check periodically and flip slices over about halfway through.
6. Store dried mandarins in an airtight container. Enjoy as a snack or use in recipes.

Baking in the Oven

You can use your oven to make dried mandarins. Follow these steps:

1. Preheat oven to 200°F.
2. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
3. Wash and slice oranges into 1/4-1/2 inch rounds. Remove any seeds.
4. Arrange in a single layer on the baking sheets.
5. Bake for 2 to 4 hours, flipping once halfway through. Prop the oven door open slightly with a wooden spoon to allow moisture to escape.
6. Test for dryness and continue baking if needed until no moisture remains on the surface.
7. Let cool completely before storing in an airtight container.

Air Drying

Air drying uses only natural airflow to slowly dehydrate the mandarin slices. Follow these tips:

• Cut washed oranges into 1/8 to 1/4 inch slices. Remove seeds.
• Place slices in a single layer on drying racks or mesh screens.
• Ensure there is good airflow on all sides.
• Let sit at room temperature for 1-2 weeks, flipping periodically.
• Bring slices inside at night to avoid re-absorption of moisture from dew.
• Once fully dried, store in sealed containers in a cool, dry spot.

Air drying takes the longest, but requires no special equipment.

Storage and Serving Tips

Storage

• Store dried mandarin oranges in an airtight glass jar or container.
• Keep in a cool, dark cupboard for up to 6 months.
• For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze for up to a year.
• They can be frozen for up to a year.

Serving Ideas

Dried mandarins are a sweet, tart, and healthy snack on their own. You can also:

• Add them to trail mixes, granola, cereals, and yogurt.
• Chop and use like raisins in cookies, breads, and muffins.
• Coarsely chop and use in spinach salad, pasta salad, or rice pilaf.
• Simmer in curry dishes, roasted vegetables, or chicken tagine.
• Create mandarin syrup by simmering dried slices in water and sugar.

Kids love the sweet, chewy texture of dried mandarins! They make an easy addition to school lunches.

Conclusion

Drying mandarin oranges at home is simple and results in a delicious, nutritious snack. Food dehydrators provide the best texture, but the oven or air drying also work.

Dried mandarins keep for months and pack more flavor and nutrients than fresh oranges. Add them to trail mixes, salads, cereals, yogurts, and baked goods for a vitamin C and antioxidant boost.