The Best Elite Gourmet Dehydrator: A Comprehensive Review and Guide

Enjoy delicious, nutritious & low-carb snacks with the Elite Gourmet Food Dehydrator. Give yourself and your family healthy, low-calorie choices for lunch, dinner, breakfast, or even a simple snack. The Elite Gourmet dehydrator has five BPA- free, easy to clean 11.1″ trays with an impressive drying space! It’s so simple; all you need is 350 watts of electricity to dry a range of fruits and vegetables, seasonings, herbs, and even create different kinds of jerky. There are many pros and cons you should know before deciding to buy this appliance.

Elite Gourmet EFD319 Food Dehydrator, 5 BPA-Free 11.4" Trays Adjustable Temperature Controls, Jerky, Herbs, Fruit, Veggies, Dried Snacks, Black

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Introduction to Dehydrators

• Dehydrators are kitchen appliances that remove moisture from food to preserve it and enhance its flavor and texture. By removing moisture, these appliances prevent the growth of bacteria and mold, significantly increasing the shelf life of various foods. This process not only makes foods last longer but also intensifies their natural flavors, making every bite more delicious.
• They are ideal for preparing healthy snacks, dog treats, and even dough crafts. With a dehydrator, you can easily make your own dried fruits, vegetables, and meats, providing nutritious snacks free from added sugars, preservatives, and additives. Additionally, dehydrators are perfect for creating unique dough crafts, allowing you to explore your creativity in the kitchen.
• Dehydrators work by circulating hot air around the food, allowing for a controlled drying process. The adjustable temperature control ensures that each type of food is dried at its optimal temperature, preserving essential nutrients and flavors. This method of food dehydration is not only efficient but also energy-saving, as it uses minimal electricity compared to traditional methods of drying food. Whether you’re making jerky, drying herbs, or creating healthy fruit rolls, a dehydrator provides a versatile solution for all your food preservation needs.

Who Is This Dehydrator For?

This product is ideal for people who enjoy creating flowers, potpourri, or dough items. It is excellent for pet owners who want to make nutritious and tasty 100% natural snacks for their canine and furry companions. It is also fantastic for people who love to make dried food for long-term storage.

What’s Included With Elite Gourmet Dehydrator?

Your Elite Gourmet dehydrator comes with:

• 1 Dehydrator

Features

• The Elite Gourmet food dehydrator comes with an adjustable temperature ranging from 95ºF to 158ºF that dehydrates foods at their optimal temperature and has a horizontal airflow that distributes heat evenly.
• Create natural dehydrated foods and snacks without the added sugars, preservatives, or additives. Say goodbye to processed junk foods. Also, create dried healthy fruit rolls, granolas, and trail mix.
• The Elite Gourmet is great for hobbyists, dry flowers, potpourri, and dough crafts. It is great for pet lovers to make healthy and delicious 100% natural homemade treats for their furry friends.
• This appliance provides an even heat distribution. It uses a base-mounted fan to promote even drying and air circulation. This kitchen appliance is also transparent, which allows you to monitor your food being dehydrated.
• Provided with is machine is 5 BPA-free trays.
• Clear view lid.
• 350W of power / 120V is perfect for home use.

Pros

• The first benefit is the size. This is seemingly going to be the most significant advantage for most people. This is one of the most popular commercial food dehydrators, and you can get one for a reasonable price. If you want to use it in the house, you won’t have to worry about lugging it out to the garage or the trunk of your car. Plus, it will save you money because you will cut down on your expenses at the store. The size of the Elite Gourmet food dehydrator is 11.4” wide x 8.5” long.
• The second good thing about this appliance is all of the accessories. There are five BPA-free trays included, and you can purchase the fruit roll sheets separately.
• This dehydrator has a base-mounted fan that will dry all of your food evenly and quickly.
• You are in control of the appliance with the adjustable thermostat—no more worrying about where to set the temperature—range from 95ºF to 158ºF.
• The fourth point is the design of the Elite Gourmet Food Dehydrator itself. There are many different size and designs available on the market. This is great because there is something for just about everyone. You can get a larger model if you’re more than just drying food occasionally. You can also get a smaller one if you’re only planning on freezing some of your dry food items. This appliance has a circle design with transparent trays and cover and a black bottom- it looks stylish on a kitchen countertop.
• Some people like to use their Elite Gourmet Food Dehydrator for large-scale commercial purposes. This can undoubtedly be a good thing. There is nothing more tiresome than having to wait for food to be dehydrated in an air-conditioned area. Your food dehydrator should be air-tight so that no moisture will have a chance to get in. This way, you can avoid mold build-up and spoilage – both of which are real problems for those who rely on dehydrating their food. The Elite Gourmet EFD319 food dehydrator has a solid lid and trays so that your food does get spoiled.
• You get a U.S.-based customer support team which means you can buy with confidence.
• The trays are fully submersible and dishwasher safe.

Cons

• It takes Very long to dehydrate food than stated in the booklet, according to some customers online.
• There’s no way to control or know exactly which temperature the machine is currently heated to. There are three temperature options 95 to 104, 113 to 131, and 140 to 158 F
• You have to make sure that the trays are seated correctly for the appliance to work well.

Dehydrator Accessories and Upgrades

• Additional trays: purchase extra trays to increase the drying space. With more trays, you can maximize the efficiency of your dehydrator, allowing you to dry larger quantities of fruits, vegetables, and meats simultaneously. This is particularly beneficial for those who enjoy preparing large batches of dried foods for storage or creating a variety of healthy snacks at once. The added trays ensure that you have ample room to experiment with different recipes and cater to the dietary needs of your family or pets.
• Dehydrator bags: use bags to store dried foods and keep them fresh. These bags are designed to lock in the flavor and nutritional value of your dehydrated foods, protecting them from moisture and air exposure. By using dehydrator bags, you can extend the shelf life of your dried goods, ensuring they remain tasty and nutritious for longer periods. Additionally, these bags are convenient for organizing and storing your dehydrated foods, making it easy to grab a healthy snack on the go or pack a nutritious meal for outdoor adventures.

Alternative Dehydrator

OSTBA Food Dehydrator

The Ostba food dehydrator is an excellent product for those seeking an alternative to the Elite Gourmet. This machine is a bit more expensive and has some features that the reviewed product does not have. The Ostba food dehydrator has a transparent lid so you can see the progress of your food as it dries. It also has an electrical 72hr timer so you can set it to the desired time. The adjustable thermostat means you can dehydrate different foods at different temperatures (95℉to 160℉).

The Elite Gourmet dehydrator is an excellent choice for those who want a quality dehydrator packed with handy features.

Comparison Table: Elite Gourmet EFD319 food dehydrator vs. Other Brands

Where to Buy Elite Gourmet Dehydrator

You can buy the Elite Gourmet EFD319 food dehydrator from many different retailers, both online and in-store. One of the most popular places to purchase this dehydrator is Amazon.

Amazon food dehydrators are often the most cost-effective option, as they tend to have better deals on shipping and handling than other retailers. Plus, their wide selection of models makes it easy to find one with all the features you’re looking for.

Elite Gourmet Dehydrator Models

• Elite Gourmet 5-Tier Food Dehydrator: a popular model with adjustable temperature control and multiple trays.

The Elite Gourmet 5-Tier Food Dehydrator is a standout choice for those seeking to explore the world of food dehydration. Its adjustable temperature control feature allows users to precisely set the temperature, ensuring optimal drying conditions for a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, meats, and herbs. This flexibility is crucial for preserving the nutritional value and flavor of the food, as different foods require different drying temperatures. With its five spacious trays, this model provides ample drying space, enabling users to dehydrate large batches of food at once. This is particularly beneficial for those who enjoy preparing healthy snacks, dog treats, or even dough crafts. Moreover, the consistent air circulation facilitated by the design ensures even drying across all trays, eliminating the need for rotation and simplifying the drying process.

• Other models: explore different Elite Gourmet dehydrator models to find the one that suits your needs.

Elite Gourmet offers a diverse range of dehydrator models, each catering to different preferences and requirements. Whether you’re looking for a compact model for occasional use or a larger one for extensive food preservation, there’s an Elite Gourmet dehydrator to match your needs. Some models come with additional features like digital timers, transparent lids for monitoring progress, and extra trays for increased capacity. By exploring the various options available, you can find a model that aligns with your culinary goals and kitchen space, ensuring you get the most out of your food dehydration experience.

Key Features to Consider

• Adjustable temperature control: allows for optimal drying of various foods, including fruits, vegetables, meats, and herbs. This feature is essential for maintaining the nutritional value and flavor of the food, as different foods require different drying temperatures. With adjustable temperature control, you can easily set the right temperature for each type of food, ensuring that they are dried evenly and thoroughly without losing their nutrients.
• Drying space: look for a dehydrator with multiple trays to increase the drying space and efficiency. Having a larger drying space means you can dehydrate more food at once, saving time and energy. Additionally, multiple trays allow for better air circulation, which is crucial for achieving consistent drying results. This is particularly beneficial for those who like to prepare large batches of dried foods or experiment with different recipes.
• Ease of cleaning: a dehydrator with dishwasher-safe trays and a simple design makes cleaning a breeze. Easy-to-clean dehydrators save you time and effort, allowing you to focus on creating delicious and healthy snacks. Look for models with removable trays that can be easily washed in warm soapy water or placed in the dishwasher. A straightforward design also means fewer nooks and crannies where food particles can get trapped, reducing the risk of bacterial growth and making maintenance more manageable.

Elite Gourmet Dehydrator Recipes

Below is one of the mouthwatering recipes you can try with your Elite Gourmia dehydrator.

• JERKY:

(This recipe is good for roughly 3-5 pounds of beef, fish, or poultry)

½ lb of brown sugar

3 cups of soy sauce*Spices of your choosing

½ cup of liquid smoke (this can be optional)

Mix all the ingredients together.

Make sure the brown sugar has melted. Let the mix sit for around 15 minutes. Place the sliced meat into the marinade and cover. Let it stand for ten minutes refrigerated. Make sure to turn meats regularly to cover completely. Remove any excess liquid. Place the meats onto dehydrator trays and dehydrate. The dehydrating time for a full 5-tray will take almost 24-36 hours.

Healthy Snack Recipes and Ideas

• Fruit leather: dry sliced fruits to create a healthy and tasty snack. Fruit leather is a delightful treat that combines the natural sweetness of fruits with a chewy texture, making it a favorite among both children and adults. To make fruit leather, puree your choice of fruits and spread the mixture evenly on the dehydrator trays. The Elite Gourmet dehydrator’s adjustable temperature control ensures that the fruit is dried at the perfect temperature, preserving its nutrients and flavor. Once dried, the fruit leather can be cut into strips and stored in airtight containers for a convenient on-the-go snack.
• Jerky: dry meats to create a protein-rich snack. Jerky is a popular snack choice for those seeking a savory and protein-packed treat. With the Elite Gourmet food dehydrator, you can easily make your own jerky at home. Start by marinating your choice of meats, such as beef, turkey, or chicken, in a mixture of spices and other liquids like soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce. The adjustable temperature control allows you to set the perfect heat for drying the meat evenly, resulting in delicious homemade jerky that is free from additives and preservatives.
• Dog treats: dry fruits and vegetables to create healthy treats for your furry companions. Dehydrating fruits and vegetables is an excellent way to prepare healthy and natural treats for your pets. The Elite Gourmet EFD319 food dehydrator provides ample drying space with its five-tier design, allowing you to prepare a variety of treats at once. Popular choices for dog treats include sweet potatoes, apples, and carrots, which can be sliced and dehydrated to create crunchy snacks that your furry friends will love. By making your own dog treats, you can ensure they are free from added sugars and harmful chemicals, promoting the health and well-being of your pets.

Dehydrator Maintenance and Cleaning

• Before first use: wash the dehydrator trays and lid in warm soapy water, rinse well, and dry thoroughly. This step is crucial to remove any manufacturing residue that may be present on the trays and lid. By ensuring these components are clean, you prevent any unwanted chemicals or odors from affecting the quality of your food. The use of warm soapy water is recommended as it effectively cleans without the need for aggressive chemicals that could damage the trays or leave harmful residues.
• Regular cleaning: wipe the dehydrator base with a soft cloth and clean the trays with warm soapy water. Regular maintenance of your Elite Gourmet food dehydrator not only prolongs its lifespan but also ensures that the snacks you prepare remain free from contaminants. Using a soft cloth to clean the base prevents scratches and maintains the appliance’s aesthetic appeal. Moreover, cleaning the trays with warm soapy water after each use helps in removing any food particles or oils that could lead to bacterial growth or unpleasant odors, keeping your dehydrator in optimal condition.
• Detect minimal smoke: run the unit for 30 minutes without placing foods for drying during the first use to burn off manufacturing residue. This initial step is essential to ensure that any residual chemicals or oils from the manufacturing process are eliminated. Detecting minimal smoke during this burn-off process is normal and indicates that the appliance is ready for safe use. By following this step, you can confidently proceed to dehydrate your favorite fruits, vegetables, and meats, knowing that your dehydrator is clean and free from any impurities that could affect the taste or safety of your food.

Safety Precautions and Guidelines

• Place the dehydrator on a solid, level surface: ensure the dehydrator sits steadily to avoid accidents. A stable surface prevents any unwanted tipping or movement during the drying process, which could lead to uneven drying or even damage to the appliance. It’s also essential to keep the dehydrator away from the edge of the counter to further minimize the risk of accidents.
• Stack trays carefully: adjust the upper tray to avoid touching the food below. Proper stacking ensures that air can circulate freely around each tray, promoting even drying. Overlapping or improperly stacked trays can obstruct airflow, resulting in inconsistent drying and potentially spoiling the food. Additionally, make sure the trays are securely in place to prevent them from shifting during operation.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions: read the manual carefully to ensure safe and proper use. The manual provides valuable information on the specific settings and features of your Elite Gourmet food dehydrator, including the adjustable temperature control. Familiarizing yourself with the instructions can help you optimize the drying process for different types of foods, ensuring the best results. It also includes important safety guidelines to prevent any mishaps or damage to the appliance.

Common Dehydrator Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding: avoid overcrowding the trays to ensure even drying. Overcrowding can lead to uneven airflow, resulting in some pieces being over-dried while others remain moist. To achieve the best results, arrange the food in a single layer on each tray, allowing adequate space between pieces for optimal air circulation. This ensures consistent dehydration and preserves the quality and flavor of the food.
• Incorrect temperature: use the correct temperature for the type of food being dehydrated. Different foods require specific temperature settings to retain their nutrients and flavors. For instance, fruits and vegetables typically need lower temperatures, while meats for jerky require higher heat. Utilizing the adjustable temperature control on your Elite Gourmet food dehydrator, set the appropriate temperature for each food type, ensuring thorough and safe dehydration.
• Poor cleaning: clean the dehydrator regularly to avoid bacterial growth. Regular cleaning not only maintains the appliance’s performance but also prevents the buildup of food residues that can harbor bacteria and lead to unpleasant odors. After each use, wash the trays and lid in warm soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and dry completely. Wipe down the base with a soft cloth to keep it free from dust and stains. This routine helps prolong the life of your dehydrator and ensures that your snacks remain safe and delicious.

Elite Gourmet EFD319 Food Dehydrator Manual

The Elite Gourmet EFD319 food dehydrator manual is a comprehensive guide designed to help users make the most of their dehydrating experience. This manual includes detailed instructions on setting up and operating the appliance, ensuring that even beginners can easily navigate its features.

Key Sections of the Manual

1. Getting Started: This section provides an overview of the dehydrator’s components, including the base, trays, and lid. It also guides users on how to carefully unpack the appliance and check for any manufacturing residue.
2. Installation and Setup: Learn how to properly assemble the dehydrator by aligning the trays and securing the lid. This section also covers the importance of placing the dehydrator on a stable, level surface near a wall socket for optimal performance.
3. Operating Instructions: Discover how to use the adjustable temperature control to set the perfect drying conditions for various foods. The manual explains the temperature settings for fruits, vegetables, meats, and herbs to ensure best results while preserving nutrients and flavors.
4. Maintenance and Cleaning: The manual emphasizes the importance of regular cleaning to maintain the appliance’s performance. It provides step-by-step instructions on washing the trays in warm soapy water and wiping the base with a soft cloth, ensuring the dehydrator remains free from bacteria and odors.
5. Safety Precautions: This section outlines essential safety guidelines to prevent accidents and ensure the proper use of the dehydrator. It includes tips on stacking trays, avoiding overcrowding, and following the manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Troubleshooting: Find solutions to common issues that may arise during the use of the dehydrator, such as uneven drying or minimal smoke detection. This section helps users troubleshoot problems effectively, ensuring a smooth dehydrating experience.

By following the Elite Gourmet EFD319 food dehydrator manual, users can confidently prepare healthy snacks, dog treats, and more, making the most of this versatile kitchen appliance.

Summary

Most of the time, these kitchen appliances are made up of sturdy metal or plastic material. In some instances, you will be able to find a small handheld model that can fit into your kitchen area. The small sizes are perfect for apartments that are small in space. Another great feature of this food dehydrator is that the machine is very easy to clean since there is only one simple setup. It also has five trays that are more than enough for you to dehydrate different kinds of foods- also, the trays are made from BPA- free materials.

An Elite Gourmet dehydrator can be a perfect appliance for you. However, you need to take some time to look through all the options that you have. Compare prices and features between different stores so that you can get the best price. It is not difficult to use, and it can help you save money on your groceries. If you take care of it and use it properly, it can last you for many years to come.

FAQ

Danny Content Writer

Hey there, since 2016, my mission has been to provide you with the information and guides you need to make food dehydrating simple and fun. Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned pro, my site offers helpful guides, reviews, and recipes to enhance your dehydrating experience. I take pride in only recommending products I believe in, ensuring my readers' trust. As an affiliate of various programs, including Amazon Associates, your support helps me continue providing quality content. Thanks for stopping by, and happy dehydrating!

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