Here in the Southwestern desert regions we are blest (cursed?) with abundant solar gain. One of the many ways we can use this resource is though dehydration of vegetables, fruits and meats.
For centuries humans have dried their foods in order to preserve and use them during the winter months. The knowledge of our ancestors combined with today’s research has given us safe and yet creative methods of continuing this long tradition.
Rose gives presentations on solar cooking for several organizations in Albuquerque including the Bernalillo County Guittierez-Hubble community farm and the University of New Mexico Continuing Education Program. This include basics of how to dry fruits, vegetables, jerky and fruit leathers using various solar based methods. See more pictures below plus a presentation I have given on solar food drying that includes data on temperatures and ways of protecting your foods from insects and wind borne particles.
Solar Dehydration Click this link for a PDF version of Rose’s presentation.
