My father planted several grape vines about 30 years ago. I believe they are Concord Grapes. This past weekend I cut a bowls worth of grapes. I decided to make raisins. On the internet I found my information. There are three basic ways of making grapes into raisins.
Here's How:
1.Spread the grapes out to dry on a grassy area for 15 days.
2.Remove stems and wash well under running water to remove any chemicals, pesticides, and herbicides.
3.Spread to dry again. Timing will depend on the weather and the grape.
My grapes have seeds
You can also use a food dehydrator.
Here's How:
1.Spread the grapes out to dry on a grassy area for 15 days.
2.Remove stems and wash well under running water to remove any chemicals, pesticides, and herbicides.
3.Spread to dry again. Timing will depend on the weather and the grape.
4.When the raisins are dry enough (taste), pack in glass jars or plastic bags or containers layered with bay leaves.
5.Seal well and store in a cool, dry place.
Tips:
1.Home-dried raisins tend to be drier than commercial raisins. Before using, soak in hot water for 15 minutes.
I tried for three days and then went to a second option:
Oven Raisins
Not everyone can afford a convenient new appliance just for drying food and not everyone has sufficient sun year round to make raisins. Or, some people just want raisins Fast! And, there is no problem with that. For these people, oven drying is the best method.
Set your oven on the "Warm" setting, it should be 150-200 degrees. Bake them this way for 17-24 hours, slowly they dry out and evenly dry to make sweet delicious raisins.
Special Note: Seedless grapes make seedless raisins. However, Grape Seeds are very Healthy and are also suitable for making "crunchy raisins".
You can also use a food dehydrator.
