Fruits that have been depicted of more than half of their water content by exposure to the sun or by mechanical heating methods. Dried fruits have a chewy texture and a very sweet flavor, due to the concentration of sugars during the drying process.  Dried fruits can be eaten as is or rehydrated (in water, juice, or alcohol). They are often added to cereals, fruits, salad, mixed salads, sauces, stuffing, rice, cakes, and cookies. They contain four to five times more nutrients, than fresh fruit of equal weight, making them an immediately energizing food.