Candied orange peel offers a delightful burst of citrus sweetness that elevates any dessert or snack. This treat combines the vibrant flavor of oranges with a touch of sugar to create a chewy, flavorful candy that you can enjoy on its own or use in various recipes. Embracing this simple candy-making process opens up a world of culinary creativity and enjoyment.
Why We Love This Candied Orange Peel
You’ll love candied orange peel for its versatility and bright flavor. A natural candied treat, it balances sweetness with a hint of bitterness, complementing many dishes. Whether you want to snuggle up with a sweet treat or garnish a fancy dessert, candied orange peel fits the bill. The bright orange color adds an eye-catching touch to your plating. You can easily customize it by adding different spices or using other citrus fruits, allowing you to adapt the flavor to suit your preferences. Plus, it uses a simple process, making it accessible for both novice cooks and seasoned bakers alike. It’s a homemade treat that gives you the satisfaction of creating something special.
Ingredients for Candied Orange Peel
- 4 large oranges
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Directions
Start by washing the oranges thoroughly to remove any wax or chemicals. Peel the oranges carefully, trying to keep the peel in large strips. Avoid removing too much of the white pith, but a little won’t hurt.
Slice the orange peels into thin strips, about 1/4 inch wide. You can adjust the thickness to your liking, keeping in mind that thinner strips will candy faster.
In a medium saucepan, combine the orange peel strips with enough water to cover them. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This softens the peels and reduces bitterness.
After simmering, drain the orange peels and set them aside.
In the same saucepan, combine the sugar, 1 cup of water, and salt. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely. You now have a simple syrup.
Add the drained orange peel strips to the saucepan and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it simmer for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peels are translucent.
Once the orange peels are ready, remove them from the syrup using a slotted spoon and place them on a cooling rack. Let them air dry for at least an hour.
For an extra touch of sweetness, roll the peels in granulated sugar before letting them dry completely.
Allow them to cool completely before enjoying or storing.
How to Serve Candied Orange Peel
Candied orange peel enhances various desserts and can be a delightful snack on its own. You might find pleasure in adding it to your afternoon tea or coffee, offering a sweet citrusy note that balances perfectly with a warm beverage. If you love baking, consider adding it to muffins or cakes for a zesty kick. It can also serve as an elegant garnish for yogurt or desserts like panna cotta and ice cream, providing a pop of color and flavor that impresses guests. Another delightful way to enjoy candied orange peel is by mixing it into homemade granola or trail mix, adding a touch of sweetness and a chewy texture that brightens the mix. The possibilities are endless, and you can let your creativity shine as you find new ways to integrate this tasty treat into your meals.
Expert Tips for Candied Orange Peel
To achieve the best results with your candied orange peel, consider a few expert tips for success. First, always select high-quality, organic oranges if possible, as they will yield a more vibrant flavor without waxy coatings. When peeling the oranges, try to minimize the amount of white pith you include since it can contribute to bitterness in your final product. If bitterness is a concern for you, you can blanch the peels a second time in fresh water to reduce any remaining bitterness further.
During the simmering process, keep a close eye on the sugar syrup; it should simmer gently, not boil vigorously, which can cause it to crystalize. If this happens, add a few teaspoons of water and gently heat the mixture to dissolve the crystals. After drying your candied orange peels, store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness, preventing air exposure that can lead to stickiness or spoilage. Additionally, feel free to experiment with flavors by adding spices like cinnamon or vanilla to the boiling sugar syrup, creating a unique twist on the classic candied orange flavor.
How to Store Candied Orange Peel
Storing your homemade candied orange peel properly ensures that it retains its delightful flavor and texture over time. Once the candied peels have cooled completely, you can store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. A glass jar or a resealable plastic bag works well for this purpose, especially when layered between sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Usually, properly stored candied orange peel can last for up to two months. However, you might notice a change in texture over time, as it can become drier. If you want to keep it even longer, consider freezing the peels. When freezing, spread the peels on a baking sheet in a single layer until they are solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This method helps preserve their flavor and prevents them from sticking together. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge or at room temperature.
Variations of Candied Orange Peel
While traditional candied orange peel is a classic treat, you can enjoy several variations to suit your taste or dietary preferences. For a spicier twist, add a pinch of ground ginger, cinnamon, or even a splash of water flavored with vanilla extract during the simmering process. This enhances the sweetness and introduces warmth to the peels, making them even more delightful.
If you’re interested in experimenting with other citrus flavors, consider swapping out oranges for grapefruit, lemons, or limes. Each fruit brings a unique zing to the candy and can make for exciting flavor combinations. You can also dip the candied peels in dark chocolate for a richer treat. Simply melt chocolate and dip half of each piece before letting them cool on a parchment-lined tray. This adds depth and pairs beautifully with the citrus flavor.
For a healthier version, consider using less sugar or natural sweeteners like agave or honey while keeping in mind that this can alter the texture slightly. Lastly, try incorporating chopped candied peel into granola bars, oatmeal, or muffins, adding a delightful chewiness that complements the other ingredients.
FAQ about Candied Orange Peel
Candied orange peel is a delightful treat that often raises specific questions among enthusiasts. One common question is, “What type of oranges is best for making candied orange peel?” The answer typically lies in using organic oranges, as they tend to have fewer chemicals on their skin. Navel oranges are excellent for this recipe due to their thick skin and sweet flavor, making them ideal for candied creations.
Another frequently asked question is, “How can I tell when my candied orange peel is done cooking?” You’ll know it’s ready when the peels become translucent and soft but still hold their shape. Testing a piece after about 45 minutes of simmering will help you gauge the texture. For those wondering about the best ways to use candied orange peel, it serves beautifully in baked goods, as a garnish, or simply enjoyed as a sweet snack.
Finally, many home cooks inquire about adjusting sweetness levels. If you prefer less sweetness in your candied orange peel, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the syrup while still achieving a pleasant flavor. Candied orange peel is a wonderfully flexible treat that can adapt to the preferences of anyone who makes it.
Candied Orange Peel
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 large large oranges Preferably organic to avoid wax and chemicals.
- 2 cups granulated sugar For the syrup and additional rolling.
- 1 cup water For the syrup.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt Enhances flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Wash the oranges thoroughly to remove any wax or chemicals.
- Peel the oranges carefully, keeping the peels in large strips and avoiding too much of the white pith.
- Slice the orange peels into thin strips, about 1/4 inch wide.
Softening the Peels
- In a medium saucepan, combine the orange peel strips with enough water to cover them.
- Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Drain the orange peels and set them aside.
Making the Syrup
- In the same saucepan, combine the sugar, 1 cup of water, and salt.
- Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely, creating a simple syrup.
Candying the Peels
- Add the drained orange peel strips to the saucepan and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Let it simmer for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peels are translucent.
Finishing Touches
- Remove the orange peels from the syrup using a slotted spoon and place them on a cooling rack.
- Roll the peels in granulated sugar for added sweetness, then let them air dry for at least an hour.
- Let them cool completely before enjoying or storing.
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