The versatile oven, which has proven itself so useful to the chef,
also has the capacity of drying flowers. Microwave drying is quick and
relatively simple. It takes only a few minutes and provides dried
flowers that look fresher and more colorful than obtained by other
methods. Flowers with thick petals like magnolia are not suitable for
drying in microwave. Silica gel, a container safe for microwave and
fresh flowers are needed for the process.
Method
- Partially fill a container with silica gel, place flower in
container with the stem side down. Slowly shift the silica gel
around the flower until it is covered.
- Place the container in the oven. Place 1 cup of water in the rear
left corner of the Radarange. Heat on full power and the prime time.
Large flowers take longer heating times.
- After heating, allow the flower to stand in the silica gel until
the gel becomes cool. Generally 4 to 6 hours are required. If the
flower is removed too soon it will be warm and limp, and will not be
able to hold its form.
- Microwave dried flowers tend to absorb moisture, so spray the
petals with hair spray or lacquer.
- Place them in an airtight container until they are used.
Flowers for Microwave Drying
This is a silica gel flower drying method. Brightly colored flowers dry
best. Flowers such as lilies, roses, violets, zinnias, sunflowers,
strawflower, and dahlias work well with this process.
