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Apples and Oranges |
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Apples and Oranges |
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1. Choose firm, ripe apples and oranges. Wash in cool water.2. Slice the fruits 1/8" thick. Press the slices between layers of paper towels to remove as much moinsture as possible without damaging the pulp of the fruit. Place the pieces in a bowl of lemon juice until coated. Remove them from the liquid and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Spray a cookie sheet with nonstick coating. Arrange the slices on the sheet one layer deep, with sides not touching.
4. Place the cookie sheet in a warm 175* oven for 3 to 5 hours for apples and 4 to 6 hours for oranges, Turn and check slices every 1/2 hour. If the fruit appears to be turning brown or become too britle, the over temperature is too hot. Turn the oven off for 15 to 30 minutes allowing the fruit to dry more slowly. Turn the oven on again and continue the process.
5. Remove the fruit and allow to cool completely. Apple slices should be pliable and leathery, but not moist. Lightly pinch orange pulp between fingers. If pulp contains moisture ot slices are damp to the touch, continue oven drying or allow the pieces to finish drying in a warm, airy place. Drying time will vary according to humidity.
6. Spray with a light coating of clear glaze shellac or a non-water based sealant to keep out humidity.
(Instructions contributed by a viewer of Ain't That Cute tv program)