Fill the Pantry - Dehydrating Workshops

Dehydrating workshop with Ellen Schindler hosted by PVA at Boundary, Ōtara

Dehydrating is the newest addition to our Fill the Pantry series. We were able to purchase dehydrating equipment and bring in a specialist to run two workshops for our community — one in West Auckland and one in South Auckland.

Dehydration is one of the oldest, simplest, and most natural ways to preserve food. Long before modern appliances, our Pacific ancestors used the natural elements — earth, sun, and wind — to dry and preserve food so it could be enjoyed long after harvest.

Participants learning hands-on how to prep fruit and trays for the dehydrator.

During the workshops, our Dehydrating Specialist Ellen Schindler guided participants through the different ways food can be dehydrated, including using a dehydrator, an oven, or simple air drying. The sessions were very hands-on, learning how to cut and prepare fruits and vegetables, use dehydrators, and taste a range of delicious dehydrated foods such as fruits and fruit leathers.

Fruit leather in the making

We also learnt how to make green powder, fruit leathers, and dried tomatoes, as well as how to prepare fruits and vegetables for long-term storage. One of the favourites from the workshop was the powdered greens. It's a simple process — harvest your favourite greens or herbs, wash and dehydrate them, then blend into a powder. Stored in a glass jar, it can last for weeks and is perfect for adding to smoothies, health shots, or even sneaking extra greens into children's meals.

A big thank you to everyone who attended. We received wonderful feedback about how useful the workshops were, especially the opportunity to gain hands-on experience and sample the dehydrated foods. Many left feeling inspired and ready to start dehydrating at home for their families and friends.

If you're interested in learning more about dehydrating or would like to borrow one of our dehydrators, please get in touch with Sera, sera@pva.org.nz