The extended time it takes to dehydrate apricots requires some pre-treatment to accomplish. To prevent browning and spoilage, apricots will benefit from being treated with sulfite dip, ascorbic acid dip, or syrup blanching. If you have a good source, you may consider that this one dried fruit that may be best purchased already dried.

Fresh apricots are excellent sources of fiber, potassium and other antioxidants. They are good for the skin and help muscle function. They help regulate heartbeat and help maintain healthy blood glucose levels. The dried variety has water removed from the fruit. Drying apricots do not affect their nutritional value. They offer the same benefits as fresh ones. You can have them as snacks, used as confectionery or a compote.

Once the apricots are dried, you can either pack them in moisture proof polyethylene bags or store them in glass jars with lids. If kept well inside a refrigerator, the apricots can last for about 6 months. Keeping it at room temperature shortens their life span to only a month.

Read more from Drying All Foods

Used for:

• Salad Topper
• Salsa
• Cobbler
• Dried apricots are delicious as a snack
• In Trail Mix
• In Fruit Salad
• In a Dip. Puree with crumbled cheese, cream, or in a compote.