Step 1

Slice the watermelon into any shape that is about 1/2 inch thick and at least 1 inch wide. Cut off the watermelon rind and remove any large seeds.

Step 2

Place the cut watermelon in a single layer on the dehydrator trays. Don't crowd the watermelon. It needs circulation to fully and evenly dry. If sticking is an issue with your trays, line the trays with parchment paper. Optional: sprinkle the watermelon with a little salt.

Step 3

Put the trays into the dehydrator and dry at 135° F. Since watermelon has a high water content, it can take a while to dry. The total drying time depends on your dehydrator and the slices' thickness. Mine takes about 24 hours.

Step 4

Remove the watermelon from the dehydrator when it is dry, malleable, and without signs of stickiness.

Step 5

Let the watermelon cool to room temperature on the trays (packing it up while it's warm will create condensation and ruin your watermelon jerky).

Step 6

Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place (see notes about storage).