Candied orange peel is a sweet and tangy treat made by cooking orange peel in sugar syrup and then coating it in sugar. It has a delicious combination of citrus flavor and sweetness, making it a great snack or addition to baked goods, chocolates, or desserts.
Here’s how you can make candied orange peel at home:
Ingredients:
- 2 large oranges
- 2 cups sugar (plus extra for coating)
- 1 cup water
Instructions:
- Peel the oranges: Carefully cut off the peel in large strips, avoiding the bitter white pith as much as possible. Slice the peels into thin strips (around 1/4 inch wide).
- Blanch the peels: Place the peel strips in a saucepan, cover with cold water, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Drain and repeat this process 2 more times to remove the bitterness.
- Make the sugar syrup: In the same saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and 2 cups of sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Bring to a simmer.
- Candy the peel: Add the blanched orange peel strips to the syrup. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the peel becomes translucent and the syrup thickens.
- Dry the peel: Use tongs or a slotted spoon to transfer the peel strips to a cooling rack. Let them dry for 1-2 hours, or until slightly sticky but not dripping with syrup.
- Coat in sugar: Roll the cooled candied peel in granulated sugar to coat thoroughly. Let it sit for an additional 2-3 hours to fully dry.
- Store: Store in an airtight container at room temperature. The candied orange peel can last for a few weeks.
Enjoy your homemade candied orange peel as a sweet snack, or use it to elevate your desserts!
