Before we talk about how to make raisins let me briefly explain what are raisins? Dry grapes are called partially dehydrated grapes. They can be eaten as a dessert or in other preparations. There are different methods for making raisins, but the most important step is knowing how to choose grapes.

How to make raisins

What Kind of Grapes Can We Use?

We must choose grapes of normal size, which are not excessively large, preferably grape varieties without seeds. Raisins can be made from red or white varieties and any variety depending on taste and availability. For the red grapes, the best varieties are seedless Flame, seedless Ruby, and in white, it is the seedless Sultanine.

How are Raisins Made?

To make the raisins, we start by washing the entire bunch of grape, placing it under the tap, and then we squeeze it without removing the peduncle. The grapes can be spread on some nets or trays before placing them in an electric dehydrator (it can also be an oven or a microwave) or a “homemade” solar dehydrator.

Drying By Natural Heat.

The solar dehydrator “home” is to place an absorbent paper on a flat surface, to put on the grapes separated from each other, to allow better air circulation between them.

With a cloth, we cover the grapes, thus obtaining the complete darkness to preserve the heat and to allow the good ventilation of the process of dehydration. This will also protect the grains from the birds and insects, as well as dust and air contamination. This process for making raisins can take about ten days depending on the climate.

Another method for making raisins does not require the bunch to be pruned. After properly cleaning the bunch, put a string in the bunch and then hang it in a ventilated place, well exposed to sunlight or indirect light, depending on the season and weather conditions.

Drying By Artificial Heat.

Another method to make raisins is using the artificial heat of a traditional oven. In this case, place the grapes in the oven at 50 ° and gradually increase the temperature until reaching 70 °, for about 7 to 10 hours. But, of course, given all the circumstances, the best option is good dehydrator food.

Preservation of Raisins.

Once obtained the raisins, do not forget to keep them in the dark, ventilated and dry place. They can be placed in open containers, covered with a cloth that allows ventilation to avoid the risk of re-wetting.

Properties of Raisins.

Raisins are food that has many benefits. They are rich in potassium which helps for the blood circulation, regulating the blood pressure. It is a healthy food for those who suffer from hypertension. Besides, potassium helps regulate body fluids and helps fight rheumatism or arthritis.

