How to make Dehydrated Kiwi Chips in an Air Fryer

Dehydrated Kiwi has been my favorite way to enjoy Kiwi! Dehydrating kiwi in an air fryer is a great way to create a healthy, delicious snack. This method preserves the fruit’s sweet taste while providing a crunchy texture. Have a look at my general approach to dehydreating fruits here.

Follow this simple step-by-step guide to make dehydrated kiwi slices, perfect for fruit snacks, school lunches, or as a tasty addition to granola bars.

Ingredients FOR DehydrateD Kiwi in an Air Fryer

• Fresh kiwi fruit
• Lemon juice (optional to preserve color): I ussually skip adding lemon to my dehydrated Kiwi as I prefer the fresh taste!

Equipment:

• Air fryer with dehydrate function or low heat setting
• Parchment paper or air fryer racks – SKip this if usign multiple racks to allow for air circulation.
• Airtight container for storage

How to Dehydrate Kiwi in an Air Fryer

Preparation:

• Peel the kiwi and cut it into thin, even slices. The thinner the slices, the quicker they will dehydrate.
• Optionally, dip the kiwi slices in lemon juice to enhance their color and add a tangy flavor.

Arrange Kiwi Slices:

• Place kiwi slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket or on air fryer racks. If using parchment paper, ensure it doesn’t cover the air circulation holes.

Dehydrating:

• To ensure the best results, set your air fryer to the lowest temperature or dehydrate setting, around 125°F to 135°F. The goal is to dry the fruit, not cook it.

Cooking Time:

• Dehydrate the kiwi slices for 4-6 hours, checking periodically. The time needed will depend on the thickness of the slices and the fruit’s water content.

Cooling and Storage:

• Once dehydrated, let the kiwi slices cool before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in a dry place to maintain their crunch.

Tips on Shopping for Kiwi

​Selecting the perfect kiwi involves checking for slight softness to gauge ripeness, inspecting the skin for blemishes, and looking for a vibrant hue to indicate a healthy fruit.

Smelling for a sweet aroma can also hint at a ripe, flavorful kiwi while considering size and shape ensures even ripeness. Choosing between organic and conventional depends on personal preference for chemical use.

Buying seasonally offers better flavor and value, and purchasing in bulk with varying ripeness extends the enjoyment period. Proper storage is key, with ripe kiwis going into the fridge and firmer ones left to ripen at room temperature.

Finally, taking advantage of store sampling policies can ensure satisfaction with flavor and sweetness, making kiwi shopping a delightful experience that caters to your specific needs and preferences for fresh snacks or recipe ingredients.

​Dried kiwi benefits

Dried kiwi offers numerous health benefits, making it a valuable addition to any diet. It’s packed with essential vitamins and minerals like vitamins C, K, E, and potassium, which support overall health, immune function, and the body’s healing process.

Its antioxidant properties help fight oxidative stress and may lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer. Dried kiwi is also beneficial for digestive health due to its high dietary fiber content and the presence of the actinidain enzyme, which aids protein digestion.

Additionally, its potassium content helps manage blood pressure, while its fiber aids in heart health by reducing cholesterol levels.

Moreover, dried kiwi contributes to weight management by helping individuals feel fuller for extended periods, thanks to its fiber content. Although it contains natural sugars, the fiber in dried kiwi helps in moderating blood sugar levels. It also contains compounds like lutein and zeaxanthin, which support eye health, and vitamin C, crucial for collagen production and skin health.

High vitamin C levels also enhance immune support. However, it’s important to note that dried kiwi can be higher in sugar and calories compared to its fresh counterpart. Choosing no-added-sugar versions and consuming them in moderation is advisable for a balanced diet.

Dried kiwi calories

Dried kiwi typically contains about 180 to 200 calories per 40-gram serving (about a handful or 1/4 cup). However, this can vary based on the specific product and whether any additional sugars or preservatives have been added during the drying process. Always check the nutrition label for the most accurate calorie information for the particular brand or type of dried kiwi you’re consuming.

Can I dehydrate other fruits at the same time? 

You can dehydrate different fruits, such as apple slices, banana chips, or strawberry slices, alongside kiwi. Just ensure they are sliced evenly for uniform drying.

How do I know when the kiwi is fully dehydrated?

The kiwi should be leathery to crisp and not sticky. Cooling a slice before testing can give you a better sense of the final texture.

Do I need a food dehydrator to dehydrate kiwi?

While a food dehydrator is ideal, an air fryer with a dehydrate function or a low-temperature setting works well for small batches.

How long do dehydrated kiwis last?

Properly dehydrated and stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, they can last for several months.

Can I speed up the drying process by increasing the temperature?

Using a higher temperature can cook the exterior of the slices too quickly, trapping moisture inside. For the best drying results, it’s best to use a low temperature for a longer time.

Dehydrating kiwi in an air fryer is an easy, beginner-friendly process that results in a tasty and healthy snack. Whether you’re trying this for the first time or looking to add a new recipe to your collection, dehydrated kiwi slices will surely be a hit.