Rhubarb-Strawberry Fruit Leather
Description
This vibrant fruit leather captures the perfect balance of sweet strawberries and tart rhubarb, creating a naturally chewy and flavorful snack. Ideal for on-the-go eating or as a healthy alternative to candy, it requires no artificial preservatives or added sugars if your fruit is ripe enough. The combination of these two classic spring fruits results in a complex flavor profile that is both refreshing and satisfying. Make it in the oven or dehydrator for a treat that stores well and keeps kids happy. It is a wonderful way to use up excess garden produce or seasonal berries, offering a fun, hands-on cooking project that yields a delicious, shelf-stable result perfect for picnics, lunchboxes, or a quick afternoon energy boost.Ingredients
Directions
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Peel and chop fresh rhubarb and strawberries into small pieces.
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Cook the chopped fruit in a saucepan over medium heat until soft and broken down, about 15-20 minutes.
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Blend the cooked fruit mixture until completely smooth using a blender or food processor.
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Strain the puree through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds and fibrous bits for a smoother texture.
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Return the puree to the saucepan and simmer gently, stirring frequently, until thickened to a paste-like consistency.
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Stir in honey if additional sweetness is desired, then let the mixture cool slightly.
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Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
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Spread the fruit puree evenly onto the prepared surface, aiming for a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
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Dehydrate at 135&# 194;°F (57ðC) or bake in an oven at the lowest setting (around 170ðF/75ðC) with the door slightly ajar for 4-6 hours.
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Remove from heat when the leather is dry and no longer sticky to the touch.
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Allow to cool completely, then peel off the parchment and cut into strips or shapes.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 17.1kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.0g0%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 0.1mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 4.6g2%
- Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
- Sugars 4.6g
- Protein 0.0g0%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Storage: Store finished fruit leather in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for longer storage.
Ingredient Variations: If using frozen fruit, thaw completely before blending. You may need to reduce cooking time if the fruit is already very soft.
Sweetness: Taste the puree before drying. If the fruit is very tart, add a little more honey or agave syrup. If it's too sweet, add a splash of lemon juice to balance the flavor.
Texture Tip: For a smoother leather, ensure you strain the puree well to remove strawberry seeds and rhubarb fibers.