Starling Fitness: Daily writings on Fitness, Diet, and Health

For some reason, I am enthralled with the idea of making my own raisins. I can buy a box of them at the store for cheaper than the fresh grapes, yet I have the compelling urge to try this on my own. You can find the directions here:

• How to make raisins at home – Slashfood – by Nicole Weston

Nicole says that it took a week of blistering heat to go from fresh grapes to raisins. The true benefit is that you know there is nothing in your home-dried raisins. No one added sugar on the outside to make them sweeter. They’re just plump and juicy raisins straight from the sun to you.

My grandma used to make fruit leather during the summer heat waves of my youth. I found a site that gives you detailed instructions on how to make your own:

• MAKING FRUIT LEATHER

Remember, dried fruit and raisins are concentrated fruit. One serving is a quarter cup (instead of a half cup). If you eat large quantities of either, it’s the same as eating candy. Make sure you watch your portions and enjoy fruit in this unique way.