Easy Candied Orange Peel

Easy Candied Orange Peel is a delightful treat that brings the vibrant flavors of citrus to your table. This simple recipe showcases fresh oranges, transforming them into glossy, sweet strips perfect for snacking, decorating desserts, or even gifting. With minimal ingredients and quick preparation, it’s an ideal choice for various occasions, whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving something sweet.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This recipe requires only a few ingredients and can be made in under an hour.
• Versatile Uses: Enjoy candied orange peel as a snack, dessert topping, or a unique addition to cocktails.
• Natural Ingredients: Made from fresh oranges and sugar, this treat is free from preservatives and artificial flavors.
• Customizable Flavors: Add spices like cinnamon or star anise for a personalized touch that suits your taste.
• Perfect for Gifting: These homemade candies make thoughtful gifts packaged beautifully for friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making your Easy Candied Orange Peel, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Sharp knife
• Pot
• Cooling rack
• Parchment paper
• Slotted spoon or tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Sharp knife: Essential for carefully peeling the oranges without cutting into the bitter white pith.
• Pot: Used to boil the peels and cook them in sugar syrup, ensuring even heat distribution.
• Cooling rack: Allows air circulation around the candied peel so they dry properly without sticking together.

Ingredients

To make your Easy Candied Orange Peel, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Candied Peels

• 4 fresh unwaxed oranges (preferably organic, navel or Valencia)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• Pinch of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Spices such as 1 cinnamon stick, 2 star anise, or 3 cloves (optional for spiced touch)

For Glazing (Optional)

• Powdered sugar or coconut sugar for vegan glaze alternative
• Dark or white chocolate (for dipping)

How to Make Easy Candied Orange Peel

Step 1: Prepare the Oranges

1. Wash the oranges thoroughly to remove any dirt or residues.
2. Carefully peel using a sharp knife, removing only the bright orange skin while avoiding the white pith as much as possible.
3. Slice the peel into thin strips about 1/4 inch wide.

Step 2: Boil the Peels

1. Place the sliced peels into a pot of cold water.
2. Bring to a boil and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Drain and repeat this boiling and draining process 2-3 times to reduce bitterness from the pith.

Step 3: Make Sugar Syrup

1. In the same pot, combine 1 cup water and 1 cup granulated sugar.
2. Bring to a gentle boil while stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.
3. Optionally add a pinch of salt, vanilla extract, or spices for enhanced flavor.

Step 4: Cook in Syrup

1. Add the boiled peels to the sugar syrup.
2. Cook over low heat for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally until peels become translucent and syrup thickens to a glossy consistency.

Step 5: Drying Process

1. Using tongs or a slotted spoon, transfer the peels onto a cooling rack lined with parchment paper.
2. Space them so they don’t stick together.
3. Allow to dry for a few hours or overnight until slightly tacky but not wet.
4. Optionally roll in sugar or dip in melted chocolate once dry.

Enjoy your homemade Easy Candied Orange Peel!

How to Serve Easy Candied Orange Peel

Easy Candied Orange Peel is a versatile treat that can enhance various dishes or stand alone as a snack. Whether you’re looking to add a citrusy flair to your desserts or simply enjoy them as is, there are plenty of delightful ways to serve these sweet strips.

As a Snack

• Enjoy the candied orange peel on its own for a flavorful, chewy treat that’s great for snacking any time of the day.

Dessert Garnish

• Use the candied peels as a beautiful garnish on cakes, cupcakes, or tarts. Their vibrant color and glossy finish will elevate your dessert presentation.

In Trail Mix

• Add chopped candied orange peel to your favorite trail mix for an unexpected burst of flavor. It’s perfect for hikes or afternoon pick-me-ups.

With Cheese

• Pair the candied orange peel with soft cheeses like goat cheese or cream cheese. The sweetness complements the tanginess of the cheese beautifully.

In Salads

• Toss chopped pieces into salads, adding a citrusy sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory ingredients like nuts and greens.

Chocolate Dipped Treats

• For an indulgent twist, dip the dried candied peels in melted dark or white chocolate. This adds richness and takes the treat to another level.

How to Perfect Easy Candied Orange Peel

To make the best Easy Candied Orange Peel, consider these helpful tips for achieving optimal flavor and texture.

• Choose unwaxed oranges: Opt for organic unwaxed oranges to ensure that your candy has only natural flavors without any unwanted coatings.
• Remove excess pith: Carefully peel away as much of the white pith as possible since it can impart bitterness to your final product.
• Adjust boiling times: If you prefer less bitterness, boil and drain the peels more times. You can repeat this process up to four times if needed.
• Monitor syrup consistency: Keep an eye on your sugar syrup while it cooks; you want it thick enough to coat but still pourable when adding the peels.
• Allow sufficient drying time: Be sure to let the peels dry completely after cooking. This helps achieve that desired tacky yet non-wet texture for better storage.
• Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to add different spices like ginger or cardamom during cooking for unique flavor variations.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Candied Orange Peel

Pairing side dishes with Easy Candied Orange Peel can create a balanced meal with exciting flavors. Here are some delicious options:

1. Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette balances out the sweetness of the candied peels perfectly.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa cooked with herbs and veggies serves as a nutritious side that complements the citrus notes.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses alongside fruit provides a fine contrast between savory and sweet flavors.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Serve roasted carrots or sweet potatoes seasoned lightly; their natural sweetness pairs well with orange flavors.
5. Savory Grain Bowl: Create a hearty grain bowl using farro or barley topped with roasted veggies and some candied peel for zest.
6. Coconut Rice: Creamy coconut rice offers a tropical twist that harmonizes beautifully with the citrus notes of orange peel.
7. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with fresh herbs makes an excellent base dish that complements many flavors, including sweet ones.
8. Fruit Compote: A warm fruit compote featuring other citrus fruits can be served on top, enhancing both texture and taste in every bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Candied Orange Peel, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture.

• Bold preparation: Not washing the oranges thoroughly can lead to bitterness. Always clean the oranges to remove any residues before peeling.
• Bold peeling technique: Removing too much pith along with the zest can make your candied peels bitter. Focus on just taking the bright orange skin when peeling.
• Bold boiling process: Skipping the boiling steps may result in overly bitter peels. Boil and drain the peels multiple times to ensure a sweeter candy.
• Bold sugar syrup consistency: Not cooking the syrup long enough can leave it runny. Cook until it thickens and becomes glossy for better adherence to the peels.
• Bold cooling method: Placing peels too close together while drying can cause them to stick. Space them out on a cooling rack lined with parchment paper for even drying.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
• Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Freezing Easy Candied Orange Peel

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
• Layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Reheating Easy Candied Orange Peel

• Oven: Preheat to 200°F (93°C) and warm for about 5 minutes until slightly softened.
• Microwave: Heat on low power for 10-15 seconds; check frequently to avoid melting.
• Stovetop: Gently warm in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally until pliable.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about Easy Candied Orange Peel, here are some common questions answered.

Can I use other citrus fruits for this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute oranges with lemons, limes, or grapefruits for different flavors.

How do I make Easy Candied Orange Peel less sweet?

To reduce sweetness, try adjusting the sugar amount in the syrup or rinsing the finished peels briefly after drying.

What is the best way to use Easy Candied Orange Peel?

These delicious strips are perfect for decorating cakes, adding to salads, or enjoying as a snack!

How should I store leftover Easy Candied Orange Peel?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them if you prefer longer shelf life.

Final Thoughts

Easy Candied Orange Peel is not only a delightful treat but also offers versatility in various dishes and desserts. Feel free to customize it by adding spices or dipping it in chocolate. This recipe is sure to impress whether you’re snacking or gifting!