How to Make Freeze Dry Pitaya

How to make beautiful Freeze-drying pitaya ?

The process in which the pitaya is peeled and sliced, then frozen in a low-temperature and low-pressure environment to remove the moisture.

Here is a common method to freeze-dry dragon fruit:

Prepare the dragon fruit: Choose a ripe dragon fruit, the skin should be bright and elastic. Cut the dragon fruit into thin slices or small pieces, making sure the slices are evenly sized, this will help with an even freeze-drying process.

Pre-freeze: Arrange the sliced dragon fruit slices evenly on a freezer plate or baking sheet, making sure they are not touching each other too much. Then place the freezing tray in the freezer to pre-freeze at -18°C or lower, which helps freeze the dragon fruit quickly and retain its shape and color.

Arrange in the freeze dryer: Transfer the prefrozen pitaya slices to the freezer tray of the freeze dryer, making sure there is appropriate space between them. Place the tray into the device according to the freeze dryer instructions.

Freeze-drying process: Start the freeze-dryer and adjust parameters such as temperature, pressure and time according to the settings of the equipment. The freeze-drying process may take several hours or even longer, depending on the thickness of the dragon fruit and the performance of the freeze dryer.

Completion of freeze-drying: Once the freeze-drying process is complete, the lyophilizer will signal or indicate completion. At this point, the dragon fruit should be dry and crispy.

Storage: Place freeze-dried dragon fruit slices in an airtight container or vacuum bag to prevent moisture and air from entering. Store in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight.

Freeze-dried dragon fruit can be eaten directly as a healthy snack, or used to make preserves, sauces, juices, or other culinary uses. Please note that freeze-dried dragon fruit may become fragile and brittle, so handle and store with care.