Can You Use Dried Fruits that have turned Sugary?

* If the fruit has become crystallized with sugar on the surface, it's perfectly fine to use. This is a natural process that happens when dried fruits are stored for a long time. The sugar in the fruit migrates to the surface and crystallizes. You can simply rinse the fruit to remove the excess sugar before using it.

* If the fruit has become sticky and fermented with a sour or alcoholic smell, it's likely spoiled and should be discarded. This is a sign that the fruit has gone bad and is no longer safe to eat.

Here's a breakdown:

Good to use:

* Crystallized sugar: This is just sugar that has migrated to the surface, and it's harmless.

* Slightly hardened texture: This is normal for dried fruit over time.

Not good to use:

* Sour or alcoholic smell: This indicates fermentation and spoilage.

* Mold: Any visible mold means the fruit is spoiled.

* Sticky, slimy texture: This also indicates fermentation and spoilage.

Tips for using sugary dried fruit:

* Rinse it: Before using, rinse the fruit with water to remove any excess sugar.

* Use it sparingly: Since the fruit is already sweetened, use it sparingly in your recipes.

* Add it to savory dishes: You can use sugary dried fruit in savory dishes like tagines, stews, or salads for a sweet and salty flavor.

In summary, if your dried fruit has just crystallized sugar on the surface, it's perfectly safe to use. If it has a sour or alcoholic smell, is moldy, or has a sticky, slimy texture, it's spoiled and should be discarded.