Candied are not only a delicious treat but also a versatile ingredient that can be used in various recipes. From adding them to baked goods to using them as a garnish for cocktails, orange peels bring a burst of sweet and citrusy flavor to any dish. If you’re looking to try your hand at making these delectable treats at home, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the process.
What You’ll Need:
– 4 large oranges
– 4 cups of water
– 2 cups of granulated sugar
– Additional sugar for coating
Step 1: Preparing the Oranges
Begin by thoroughly washing the oranges to remove any dirt or residue. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut off the top and bottom of each orange. Then, score the peel in quarters from top to bottom, being careful not to cut too deep into the fruit itself. Once scored, you can easily peel off the skin in quarters.
Step 2: Removing the Pith
The white pith underneath the orange peel can be bitter, so it’s important to remove it. Lay each quarter of peel flat on a cutting board and carefully scrape off the pith using a spoon or knife. Be gentle to avoid tearing the peel itself.
Step 3: Boiling the Peels
In a large saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the prepared orange peels to the boiling water and let them cook for about 3 minutes. This blanching process helps remove any bitterness from the peels.
Step 4: Draining and Cooling
Once the peels have blanched, drain them from the water and set them aside to cool for a few minutes. You can place them on a wire rack or a baking sheet lined with parchment or wax paper to cool completely.
Step 5: Creating the Syrup
In the same saucepan used for blanching, combine 2 cups of granulated sugar with 2 cups of water. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar has completely dissolved.
Step 6: Candying the Peels
Once the syrup is ready, carefully add the blanched orange peels into the saucepan. Let them simmer in the syrup for about 45 minutes or until the peels become translucent and soft, stirring occasionally to ensure each peel is coated in the syrup.
Step 7: Coating with Sugar
Using a slotted spoon, remove the candied orange peels from the syrup and transfer them to a wire rack or baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let them rest for a few minutes to allow excess syrup to drip off. While still slightly sticky, roll each peel in granulated sugar to coat them completely. Set them aside to dry for at least 2 hours.
Step 8: Storing and Enjoying
Once completely dry, your homemade candied orange peels are ready to be stored. Place them in an airtight container and store them in a cool, dry place. They can last for several weeks if stored properly.
These candied orange peels can be enjoyed on their own as a sweet snack or used as an ingredient in various recipes such as cakes, cookies, or even savory dishes like salads. Their bright, citrusy flavor adds a delightful touch to any culinary creation. So why not try making your own batch of candied orange peels? With these simple steps, you’ll have a delicious and versatile treat to enjoy in no time!