Drying chili peppers is a great way to store them for the long term. You don't want to waste any of those chili peppers picked from that huge harvest this year. Here are a few ways to dry them so they don't go to waste.

The Basic Method for Drying Chili Peppers

Wash your chili peppers thoroughly after picking to remove any dirt, then dry.

Place on a plate or a wire rack in a dry, well ventilated room. You can also string the chilies up on string or thread and hang to dry. Within several weeks, you will have dried chili peppers and you can grind them up or use them as ornaments as desired.

Oven Drying Instructions

1. Wash your chili peppers thoroughly after picking to remove any dirt.
2. Cut them in half, lengthwise to expose the pepper innards.
3. Arrange the chili peppers over a baking sheet.
4. Bake at low heat, about 100 to 135 degrees.

There is no set time to bake the chili peppers for drying. Keep an eye on them, turning every few minutes or so. You can leave the oven door cracked for some air flow. It will take several hours with this method. Keep in the oven until the moisture has been baked out of them. Use as desired!