Freeze-drying Space Strawberries...

Space missions are getting longer. This includes trips to the International Space Station, the moon, and eventually to Mars. Humans must find a way to store food. They need to do this without tying up space and electricity, which refrigeration requires. Enter freeze drying!

Strawberries hit their peak flavor in April. If you want to keep them around for the year, you can freeze-dry them. If you’re planning on going into space somehow, you can freeze-dry them just like the astronauts! And the best part, you don’t need a special appliance to freeze for this recipe.

Items you will need 

•  A cup or more of sliced strawberries, washed and dried off
•  Wax paper
•  Shallow baking pan
•  Freezer

Directions

1. Set the freezer at the lowest possible temperature.

2. Place the wax paper in the baking pan.

3. Place the berries on the wax paper and spread them out.

4. Place the pan in the freezer.

5. Allow the berries to remain in the freezer until they’re completely freeze-dried, for about 2 to 3 weeks.

6. Dry the berries completely. Pack them in an airtight storage bag. Store the bag in your freezer or pantry.

7. These make a great addition to a trail mix.