Introduction
Candied orange peel is a sweet and tangy treat that can be enjoyed on its own or used as a delicious ingredient in baking and cooking. Making candied orange peel at home is surprisingly easy and can be a fun project to try. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of making your own candied orange peel, from selecting the right oranges to storing the finished product.
List of Ingredients:
– 4 large oranges
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 2 cups water
– Additional sugar for coating
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Selecting the Oranges
– Choose organic oranges to ensure that the peel is free from pesticides and other chemicals.
– Opt for oranges with smooth, thick skins as they will yield more substantial strips of peel.
– Wash the oranges thoroughly before proceeding to the next step.
Step 2: Peeling the Oranges
– Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the top and bottom ends off each orange.
– Score the peel of each orange into quarters, being careful not to cut into the flesh.
– Gently remove the peel from the oranges in quarters.
Step 3: Removing Bitterness
– Place the orange peel in a large pot and cover it with cold water.
– Bring the water to a boil, then drain the peel and repeat this process two more times.
– This step helps remove the bitterness from the orange peel.
Step 4: Cooking the Orange Peel
– In the same pot, combine 2 cups of water and 2 cups of sugar, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
– Add the orange peel to the sugar syrup and bring it to a simmer.
– Cook the peel for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, until it is translucent and tender.
Step 5: Drying the Orange Peel
– Using a slotted spoon, remove the orange peel from the syrup and place it on a wire rack to dry.
– Let the orange peel dry for 8-12 hours, or overnight, until it is no longer sticky to the touch.
Step 6: Coating the Orange Peel
– Once the orange peel is dry, toss it in granulated sugar to coat each strip.
– Shake off any excess sugar and place the candied orange peel on a clean, dry surface to set.
Step 7: Storing the Candied Orange Peel
– Store the candied orange peel in an airtight container at room temperature.
– It can be kept for up to 2 weeks, or longer if stored in the refrigerator.
– Use the candied orange peel in recipes or enjoy it as a sweet snack.
Tips and Tricks
– Use the leftover orange-infused syrup in cocktails or drizzle it over desserts for added flavor.
– Try experimenting with different citrus fruits such as lemons or grapefruits to create a variety of candied peels.
– For a twist, you can dip the candied orange peel in melted chocolate for an extra decadent treat.
Conclusion
Making candied orange peel at home is a simple yet rewarding process that yields a delicious and versatile ingredient. By following the steps outlined in this guide and incorporating some tips and tricks along the way, you can create your own batch of candied orange peel to enjoy in various culinary creations. Get creative with how you use your candied orange peel and savor the sweet and tangy flavors it adds to your dishes. Start your candied orange peel-making adventure today and delight your taste buds with this homemade delicacy.
