Best Way to Make Candied Orange Peel Recipe at Home

Candied orange peel is a delightful treat that’s both sweet and citrusy, making it a perfect addition to desserts, salads, and even as a snack on its own. If you’ve ever wondered how to bring that delicious flavor to your home kitchen, this candied orange peel recipe is just the ticket! Not only is it easy to make, but it’s a fantastic way to utilize the peels of oranges, reducing waste and adding a gourmet touch to your dishes.

Ingredients & Kitchen Tools

– Ingredients
– 2 large oranges (preferably organic)
– 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– Extra sugar for coating

– Kitchen Tools
– Vegetable peeler or sharp knife
– Medium saucepan
– Baking sheet
– Parchment paper
– Airtight container for storage

Prep & Cook Time

– Prep Time: 20 minutes
– Cook Time: 1 hour
– Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Oranges: Begin by thoroughly washing the oranges to remove any wax or pesticides. Use a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife to peel the oranges, ensuring you get the outer rind without too much of the bitter white pith.

2. Slice the Peels: Cut the peels into thin strips, approximately ¼ inch wide. The thinner the strips, the quicker they will candy.

3. Blanch the Peels: Place the orange peel strips in a medium saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, drain the peels and repeat this blanching process twice. This helps remove bitterness.

4. Make the Syrup: In the same saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and 1 ½ cups of sugar. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.

5. Candy the Peels: Add the blanched orange peels to the syrup. Reduce the heat to low and allow the peels to simmer for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until they become translucent.

6. Dry the Peels: After candying, use a fork to remove the peels from the syrup, letting the excess syrup drip off. Place the candied peels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let them cool for about an hour.

7. Coat with Sugar: Once cooled, sprinkle extra sugar over the orange peels for added sweetness and to prevent sticking.

8. Store the Candied Peels: Transfer the homemade candied citrus to an airtight container, where they can last for up to a month.

Nutritional Benefits or Advantages

Candied orange peels offer more than just a delicious taste. They retain some nutrients from the oranges, including fiber and vitamin C, while also providing a boost of antioxidants. These peels can also add a refreshing flavor to various dishes!

Tips, Variations, or Substitutions

– Experiment with Other Citrus: Although this recipe focuses on oranges, you can use the same method for grapefruits, lemons, or limes.
– Chocolate Dipped: After drying, consider dipping the candied peels in melted dark chocolate for an indulgent treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

– Overcooking the Peels: Keep a close eye while simmering to prevent the peels from becoming too soft.
– Not Blanching Thoroughly: Skipping the blanching process can result in overly bitter peels; be sure to do this step.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store candied orange peels in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them or freeze for up to six months. There’s no need to reheat; simply enjoy them at room temperature.

Conclusion

Making your own candied orange peel at home is simple, rewarding, and adds a culinary flair to your recipes. So, give this candied orange peel recipe a try and enjoy the deliciously sweet flavor of homemade candied citrus! If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it, and explore more delightful treats on the blog!

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought orange peels?
It’s best to use fresh oranges to ensure the best flavor and texture.

2. How can I use candied orange peels?
They are perfect for garnishing desserts, adding to trail mixes, or even as a sweet snack.

3. Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Reducing sugar may affect the candying process, but you can experiment with using less sugar for a healthier option.

4. What if my peels are too bitter?
Make sure to blanch thoroughly; if they’re still bitter, you can soak them in simple syrup longer to refine their flavor.