How To Candy An Orange Peel

How to Candy Orange Peels: A Sweet and Tangy Treat

There’s something incredibly satisfying about turning citrus peels into a delicious, sweet treat. Candied orange peels are not only a delightful snack on their own, but they also make for a lovely addition to baked goods and desserts. If you’ve ever wondered how to candy orange peels at home, you’re in for a treat. With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create your own batch of candied orange peels that will impress your friends and family.

What You’ll Need

Before you get started, make sure you have the following ingredients and tools on hand:

4 large oranges
2 cups sugar
1 cup water
Additional sugar for coating
A saucepan
A sharp knife
A cutting board
A wire rack

Step 1: Preparing the Oranges

Start by washing the oranges thoroughly to remove any dirt or residue. Using a sharp knife, carefully score the orange peels into quarters, being careful not to cut into the flesh of the fruit. Gently remove the peels from the oranges and set the fruit aside for another use.

Step 2: Boiling the Peels

Place the orange peels in a saucepan and cover them with cold water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the peels simmer for about 15 minutes. This helps to soften the peels and remove any bitterness.

Step 3: Creating the Sugar Syrup

While the peels are simmering, combine 2 cups of sugar and 1 cup of water in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally until the sugar is completely dissolved.

Step 4: Candying the Peels

Once the peels have simmered, drain them and add them to the sugar syrup. Let the peels simmer in the syrup for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until they become translucent and the syrup has thickened slightly.

Step 5: Drying and Coating

Using a slotted spoon, remove the candied peels from the syrup and place them on a wire rack to dry. Allow the peels to dry for several hours or overnight. Once they are dry to the touch, roll them in additional sugar to coat them.

Enjoy Your Homemade Treat

Once the candied orange peels are completely dry and coated in sugar, they are ready to enjoy. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a month, and use them to add a burst of citrus flavor to your favorite recipes. Whether you snack on them as is or use them to elevate your baking, these homemade candied orange peels are sure to be a hit.

Now that you know how to candy orange peels, why not give it a try? It’s a fun and rewarding way to make the most of this vibrant and flavorful fruit.

Want to learn more about candying orange peels or share your own techniques? Join the discussion in the Cooking Techniques forum!

FAQ:

What are the ingredients needed to candy an orange peel?

To candy an orange peel, you will need fresh oranges, granulated sugar, water, and optionally, dark chocolate for dipping.

Can any type of orange be used to candy the peel?

Yes, you can use any type of orange to candy the peel. However, it’s best to choose organic oranges to ensure that the peel is free from any pesticides or chemicals.

How do you prepare the orange peel for candying?

To prepare the orange peel for candying, you’ll need to remove the peel from the orange in large pieces, removing as much of the white pith as possible. Then, the peel should be cut into thin strips or desired shapes.

What is the process for candying the orange peel?

The process for candying orange peel involves boiling the peel in water to remove bitterness, then cooking it in a sugar syrup until the peel becomes translucent and the syrup thickens. After that, the peel is dried and optionally dipped in chocolate.

How long does it take to candy orange peel?

Candying orange peel can take several hours from start to finish. The process involves boiling the peel, cooking it in sugar syrup, and then allowing it to dry. The exact time can vary depending on the size of the peel and the thickness of the syrup.

How should candied orange peel be stored?

Candied orange peel should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature. It’s best to separate the layers of peel with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When stored properly, candied orange peel can last for several weeks.

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