Join us for a practical, hands-on workshop introducing the art and science of food dehydration. While the process can take time, learning how to dehydrate foods properly can save money, reduce food waste, and transform fresh harvests into long-lasting ingredients for everyday meals.

Participants will learn how to turn fresh and frozen fruits, vegetables, and herbs into shelf-stable snacks and versatile meal additions. The class will also explore how dehydration can provide an alternative way to preserve foods that are often kept frozen—an especially useful skill during power outages or emergencies, when freezers can quickly become unreliable.

During this session, participants will learn:

• Essential food safety protocols for dehydration

• How to properly dry fruits, vegetables, and herbs

• Techniques for dehydrating foods that are typically frozen

• How to test for doneness, apply conditioning methods, and prevent spoilage

• Best practices for long-term storage to maintain quality and safety

By the end of the workshop, attendees will leave with the knowledge and confidence to safely preserve foods at home and build a pantry that supports long-term food security and resilience.

The workshop is led by professionally trained culinary artist, chef, and gardener Nichol Talley who brings a background in food safety and community food systems. A longtime food justice advocate, she has volunteered for more than two years with a local organization that operates a year-round weekly food distribution program. Nichol also serves on the board of Voices for Earth Justice, helping steward a community garden where they have hosted interactive cooking demonstrations. Many in the community may also recognize Nichol from a previous hands-on workshop at Brightmoor Artisans Collective on seasonal comfort foods.

This class is ideal for anyone looking to stretch their food budget, reduce waste, and learn practical preservation skills that make the most of seasonal abundance.

Come learn how a simple process—removing water—can turn today’s harvest into tomorrow’s meals. 🌿🥕