Learn how to freeze dry peppers. You can use all different types of peppers. From fresh bell peppers to scorching hot peppers, you follow the exact same steps each time.
Airtight Containerfor storage glass jars or mylar bags with oxygen absorbers
Vacuum Sealeroptional for sealing mylar bags or removing air from glass jars
Ingredients
Peppersany variety
Instructions
Preparing the Peppers
Choose fresh, firm whole peppers, ideally from a local market or your garden. Avoid peppers with soft spots or browning. Wash and dry them on a kitchen towel.
Put on gloves (if using hot peppers) and remove the stems and seeds.
Use the chef's knife to slice the peppers into strips or to dice them into cubes.
Spread the peppers in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat and freeze overnight. (prefreezing is optional)
Freeze Dry Process
Arrange the frozen peppers in an even layer on your freeze drying trays. (pre-freezing is optional)
Place them in the freeze dryer and turn on the device following the manufacturer's instructions.
Allow the freeze dryer to run until the freeze dryer indicates the peppers are dry. This may be 20-32 hours.
Check for doneness, if not done run the dryer for a couple more hours. Continue until peppers are brittle, crunchy and completely dry.
Store the peppers for long term storage.
Storage
Short term storage (1-2 years): Place your peppers in an airtight container like a mason jar, ideally with an oxygen absorber.Long term storage (up to 25 years): Store the dried chiles in a mylar bag with an oxygen absorber and vacuum seal.
Keep your freeze-dried food in a cool, dark, and dry place.
Notes
Note, please always check your freeze dryer manual for specifics on that dryer. Some models have different settings that make freeze drying super easy!