Candied Orange Peel Candy Strips
Highlighted under: Light Bites
I recently decided to try my hand at making Candied Orange Peel Candy Strips, and I couldn't be happier with the results! These sweet, zesty treats are a delightful way to use up leftover orange peels. The process is surprisingly simple, and the flavor is wonderfully bright and refreshing. Whether you use them for snacking, as an elegant garnish, or in baking, I guarantee you’ll want to make a batch to share with friends and family. Let's dive into the process together!
Making Candied Orange Peel Candy Strips was a delicious journey for me. I opted for organic oranges to amplify the flavor, ensuring the peels were as fragrant and tasty as possible. After a little trial and error, I discovered that soaking the peels overnight not only reduces bitterness but also enhances the candied texture. I recommend you try this method for the best results!
The method of simmering the orange peels in sugar syrup was particularly rewarding. I found that slowly cooking them at a low temperature allowed the peels to absorb the sweetness evenly, resulting in a lovely candy that is perfect for snacking. It also makes a wonderful addition to desserts or cheese boards!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Bright citrus flavor that lifts your spirits
- A perfect combination of sweet and chewy
- Versatile treat for snacks, desserts, or garnishes
Understanding the Ingredients
Using organic oranges is key to achieving vibrant, flavorful candied peels. Conventional oranges may have pesticide residues that affect the taste and quality of your candy. The zesty skin of organic oranges provides essential oils that contribute to the aromatic flavor, while the absence of wax means you won’t have to worry about washing off any chemical coatings. It's worth investing in good quality citrus for the best results!
Granulated sugar is the primary sweetener in this recipe, and its texture plays a crucial role in candying the peels. As the sugar dissolves in the water, it forms a syrup that penetrates the orange peel, allowing flavors to meld. For an interesting twist, you could substitute some of the granulated sugar with brown sugar to add a hint of caramel-like flavor, enhancing the overall richness of your candied oranges.
Perfecting the Candying Process
The blanching step is important not just for reducing bitterness but also for preparing the peels to absorb the syrup well. If you skip this step, you might end up with overly bitter orange peels that detract from the final flavor. During blanching, look for the peels to brighten in color, signaling that they are becoming tender and ready for the syrup.
When candying the peels, maintaining a low simmer is crucial. If the syrup boils too vigorously, it can caramelize too quickly, causing the peels to turn sticky instead of achieving that desired chewy texture. You'll want to stir occasionally and keep an eye on the peels; they're done when they look translucent and slightly plump, indicative of perfect absorption of the syrup.
Ingredients
To make these delightful candied orange peel strips, you'll need the following ingredients:
Candied Orange Peel Ingredients
- 2 large organic oranges
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your homemade Candied Orange Peel Candy Strips:
Prepare the Oranges
Wash the oranges thoroughly. Carefully remove the peels, ensuring to keep the white pith intact for a chewy texture. Slice the peels into thin strips and set them aside.
Blanch the Peels
In a saucepan, bring water to a boil and add the sliced orange peels. Blanch for about 5 minutes, then drain and rinse them under cold water. Repeat this process twice to reduce bitterness.
Make the Sugar Syrup
In the same saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, water, and salt. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
Candy the Peels
Add the blanched orange peels to the sugar syrup. Reduce heat and let simmer gently for about 30 minutes, or until the peels are tender and translucent.
Cool and Coat
Remove the peels from the syrup, allowing excess syrup to drip off. Optionally, roll the peels in additional sugar for a sweet coating. Let them cool on a wire rack before enjoying.
Pro Tips
- For a variation, try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the sugar syrup for a warm flavor twist. You can also dip cooled strips in dark chocolate for an indulgent treat!
Storage and Shelf Life
Proper storage of candied orange peels can significantly extend their shelf life. After cooling completely, place them in an airtight container lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Stored this way, they can last up to three weeks in a cool, dry place or up to six months in the freezer. Just make sure to allow them to thaw at room temperature before using, as the texture may become too hard if frozen.
For those looking to share their candied creations, consider packaging them in decorative boxes with small silica gel packets to absorb any moisture. This not only keeps the peels fresh but also presents a lovely gift idea for friends and family. Don't forget to label them with the date to keep track of freshness!
Serving Suggestions and Variations
These candied orange peels are incredibly versatile. You can enjoy them as a standalone snack or chop them up to add a citrusy punch to baked goods such as muffins or cakes. They also make a beautiful garnish for cocktails or desserts, adding both visual appeal and flavor. Try pairing them with dark chocolate for an indulgent treat—simply dip the cooled peels in melted chocolate and allow them to set on parchment paper.
Feel free to experiment with flavors as well! Adding a hint of spices like cinnamon or ginger to the sugar syrup can produce exciting variations. You can also try substituting other citrus peels, such as lemon or grapefruit. Just keep in mind that different peels may have varying levels of bitterness, so adjust your blanching time accordingly to achieve the best flavor balance.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other citrus fruits?
Yes, lemons and grapefruits can also be candied using a similar process.
→ How do I store the candied peels?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
→ Can I freeze them?
Absolutely! Keep them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 6 months.
→ What can I do with candied orange peels?
They are perfect for snacking, as garnishes, or as sweet additions to baked goods like cakes and cookies.
Candied Orange Peel Candy Strips
Created by: The Yumandstir Team
Recipe Type: Light Bites
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: Yield: 1 cup
What You'll Need
Candied Orange Peel Ingredients
- 2 large organic oranges
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
How-To Steps
Wash the oranges thoroughly. Carefully remove the peels, ensuring to keep the white pith intact for a chewy texture. Slice the peels into thin strips and set them aside.
In a saucepan, bring water to a boil and add the sliced orange peels. Blanch for about 5 minutes, then drain and rinse them under cold water. Repeat this process twice to reduce bitterness.
In the same saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, water, and salt. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
Add the blanched orange peels to the sugar syrup. Reduce heat and let simmer gently for about 30 minutes, or until the peels are tender and translucent.
Remove the peels from the syrup, allowing excess syrup to drip off. Optionally, roll the peels in additional sugar for a sweet coating. Let them cool on a wire rack before enjoying.
Extra Tips
- For a variation, try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the sugar syrup for a warm flavor twist. You can also dip cooled strips in dark chocolate for an indulgent treat!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 5mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 52g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 50g
- Protein: 1g