Homemade Grape Leather

Ingredients

• 2 kg (4.4 lbs) fresh grapes (preferably seedless) 2 kg (4.4 lbs) fresh grapes (preferably seedless)
• 200g (1 cup) granulated sugar (adjust according to sweetness preference) 200g (1 cup) granulated sugar (adjust according to sweetness preference)
• Juice of 1 lemon (optional, for added tartness) Juice of 1 lemon (optional, for added tartness)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 0g, 0g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 25g
• Protein: 1g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Wash the grapes thoroughly and remove any stems or leaves.
2. 2.
   Place the grapes in a large pot and crush them using a potato masher or your hands.
3. 3.
   Cook the crushed grapes over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they release their juices and start to break down.
4. 4.
   Reduce the heat to low and simmer the grapes for about 30 minutes, or until they turn into a thick paste-like consistency.
5. 5.
   If desired, add the sugar and lemon juice to the grape paste and stir until well combined.
6. 6.
   Continue cooking the mixture over low heat for another 10-15 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
7. 7.
   Line a baking sheet or a large tray with parchment paper.
8. 8.
   Pour the grape paste onto the prepared tray and spread it evenly using a spatula or the back of a spoon. Aim for a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
9. 9.
   Place the tray in a well-ventilated area or use a food dehydrator to dry the grape paste. Allow it to dry for 2-3 days, or until it becomes firm and leathery to the touch.
10. 10.
    Once dried, cut the grape leather into desired shapes and sizes.
11. 11.
    Store the homemade grape leather in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a month.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Grapes — Choose ripe and sweet grapes for the best flavor. Seedless grapes are preferred to avoid any unwanted texture in the grape leather.

Tips & Tricks

• To speed up the drying process, you can use a food dehydrator set to a low temperature.
• Experiment with different grape varieties to discover unique flavors and colors in your grape leather.
• For a tangier flavor, add a bit of lemon zest to the grape paste before cooking.
• Dust the finished grape leather with powdered sugar or cornstarch to prevent sticking.

Serving advice

Serve the homemade grape leather as a delightful snack on its own or pair it with a cheese platter for a touch of sweetness. It can also be enjoyed alongside nuts or as a topping for yogurt or ice cream.

Presentation advice

Arrange the grape leather pieces on a wooden board or a decorative plate. Garnish with fresh grapes or mint leaves for an appealing presentation.