Ann Hartley
Food dehydrators have come a long ways since I bought my first one back in the 70’s. They have become more compact and more affordable. When considering how much dehydrated foods cost in the market, one realizes that dehydrating at home makes good sense even though it may increase the electric bill. I bought the Magic Mill 9 rack stainless steel bundle last year for just a little over $100. I hated my ancient dehydrator (the round one with a hole in the center) and just wasn’t using it. This one I love. It really makes a difference.
In my opinion, the minimum features one needs in a food dehydrator are a reasonably small footprint, stainless steel shelves that slide in and out, nonstick plastic mesh screens and fruit leather trays (not just for leather, but also to catch the crumbs). It should have different time and temperature settings and turn itself off automatically.
Dehydrated Cauliflower
A Peek Inside my Magic Mill Food Dehydrator
Dehydrated foods often taste very different from how they are when eaten fresh or cooked. As the moisture is taken out, the flavors sweeten and intensify. This batch of food includes tomatoes, swiss chard, apples, onions, parsnips, turnips, and cauliflower.
I used to hate cauliflower except for pickles, which were undoubtedly saved by the sugar, red peppers, and onion. But when my late friend's wellness coach asked me to substitute cauliflower for potatoes, rice, and other starches in my friend's meals, I began making cauliflower rice, cauliflower mashed potatoes, and cauliflower bread. I even tried cauliflower pizza, but that was a fail.
Trying was worth the effort, though, because cauliflower really is a superfood. It is anti-inflammatory and rich in anti-oxidants.
Do you have a favorite dehydrated food? Mine is cheese.
I have not tried dehydrated food yet, but I believe it’s delicious
I don’t understand why folks are trying to pretend like cauliflower is popcorn or bread or what have you. Just admit you’re substituting cauliflower for whatever and just deal with it already…
Amen to that, Alex. Besides, the only way I can stomach cauliflower rice is if it is mixed in with actual rice.
I am tired of folks playing make believe all the time. It is a frigging cauliflower and I don’t care what you want it to be, it is still just a cauliflower. Always has been, always will be
Years ago when my late hubby had to go to the VA after a stroke the dietician brought out a tray of fake food and tried to sermonize about what he could or could not have to eat. I told her that just because he could not speak at that time did not mean he could not hear and understand her, so please do not patronize this college professor with manipulatives. When she picked up an avocado and said “Do not eat this. It is fat” I got up and wheeled him out of there. Naturally, we bought avocados on the way home.
Some folks just have to talk down to others
I have only gotten good at it recently, Carol. Today I made 13-Ancient Grains Kombucha crackers, in preparation for a camping trip.
I have never had any dehydrated foods. My Dad used to do this but I never tasted anything.
But I should, I know it is healthy. Good for you!