Candied Orange Peel Recipe

Candied Orange Peel Recipe: A Sweet Delight with a Citrus Twist

History and Fun Facts:

Candied orange peel is a delicious treat that has been enjoyed for centuries. The process of candying fruit peel emerged as a way to preserve the flavor and texture of citrus peels, particularly orange peels. This ancient technique dates back to the 14th century, when it was primarily used as a medicinal remedy to alleviate digestive issues and combat scurvy. In later years, candying orange peel became a popular confectionary practice, expanding its use beyond medicinal purposes.

Not only is candied orange peel a delightful treat, but it also carries several health benefits. Orange peel contains essential oils and high levels of vitamin C, making it a valuable source of antioxidants. These antioxidants contribute to boosting the immune system and improving overall well-being.

Now, let's dive into the incredible recipe for candying orange peel:

Ingredients:
- 4 medium-sized oranges
- Water (for boiling)
- Granulated sugar (equal to the weight of the drained peel)
- Additional granulated sugar (for coating)

Instructions:

1. Begin by preparing the oranges. Wash them thoroughly to remove any dirt or residue. Cut off the ends of the oranges, creating a flat surface.
2. Make long, narrow strips by cutting the orange peels from top to bottom. Ensure that the strips are even in width and about ¼ inch wide. Remove as much pith from the peel as possible, as it tends to be bitter.
3. Place the orange peel strips in a large saucepan, covering them with cold water. Bring the water to a boil over medium heat and let it continue to boil for 20 minutes. This initial boiling process will help soften the peel and remove any bitterness.
4. Once the first 20 minutes have elapsed, carefully drain the water from the saucepan. Refill the saucepan with cold water and return it to the heat, bringing it to a boil again. Let the peel boil for another 20 minutes. This further boiling process helps remove any residual bitterness and ensures that the peels become tender.
5. After the second boiling, drain the water from the saucepan and allow the orange peel to cool slightly.
6. Once the orange peel has cooled down, measure its weight and prepare an equal amount of granulated sugar. For example, if the drained peel weighs 8 ounces, prepare 8 ounces of granulated sugar.
7. Transfer the measured sugar into a medium-sized saucepan, along with the cooled orange peels. Gently mix the sugar and orange peel together until they are well combined.
8. Place the saucepan over low heat and let the mixture simmer for about 1 hour. Occasionally stir the mixture to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
9. While the orange peel is simmering, prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Set it aside for later use.
10. After 1 hour of simmering, the orange peel should become translucent and appear candy-like. Carefully remove each strip of peel from the saucepan, allowing any excess syrup to drip off, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
11. Allow the candied orange peel to cool for a few minutes until they are slightly sticky to the touch.
12. Fill a small bowl with granulated sugar. One by one, coat each strip of candied orange peel in the sugar, ensuring that they are fully covered on all sides. Place the sugar-coated peel back onto the baking sheet.
13. Once all the strips of candied orange peel are coated in sugar, set them aside to cool completely. The sugar coating will crystallize and give the peel a beautiful texture and appearance.
14. Once completely cooled, store the candied orange peel in an airtight container, away from direct sunlight, for up to a month. Enjoy these delightful treats on their own, use them as a garnish for desserts, or incorporate them into your favorite baked goods.

Fun Facts and Serving Suggestions:

- The practice of candying fruit peels dates back to the Middle Ages, with orange peel being one of the most commonly candied peels due to its unique flavor and aroma.
- Candied orange peel is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of recipes. It adds a hint of citrus sweetness and texture to cakes, cookies, muffins, and even cocktails.
- You can also dip the candied orange peels in chocolate for an extra indulgent treat. The combination of sweet and tangy flavors creates a delightful contrast.
- To add a festive touch, chop the candied orange peel into small pieces and use them as a topping for ice cream, yogurt, or even salads.
- The syrup remaining after simmering the orange peel can be used as a flavoring in other recipes, such as cocktails, syrups, or drizzles for pastries.

Similar Recipe Dishes:

If you enjoy candying orange peel, you may also want to explore other delightful recipes that incorporate citrus flavors. Here are a few similar dishes worth exploring:

1. Lemon Bars: These tangy and sweet treats are made with a buttery shortbread crust and a refreshing lemon custard filling. They are perfect for citrus lovers and can be enjoyed as a dessert or snack.

2. Citrus Marmalade: Marmalade is a classic preserve that combines the bright flavors of citrus fruits with a touch of bitterness. Spread it on toast, enjoy it with scones, or use it as a glaze for meats like ham or chicken.

3. Key Lime Pie: This iconic dessert combines the zesty flavors of key lime juice with a creamy filling and a buttery graham cracker crust. It is a refreshing and tangy dessert that is perfect for hot summer days.

Remember, candying orange peel is not only a delicious treat but also a great way to reduce waste and make use of the whole fruit. So, next time you indulge in some juicy oranges, save the peels and transform them into a sweet delight that will surely impress your family and friends. Enjoy!

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