We love finding cool ways to use the whole piece of produce so we can cut down on food waste. Enter, our newest foodie crush, candied orange peels. We'll walk you through what they are, how to make a homemade version, and how to use them. These candies are one a"peel"ing treat you won't want to miss out on!
So What Is A Candied Orange Peel?
In culinary terms, to "candy" something means to sweeten with crystallized sugar. Common items that are candied include nuts, fruits, and citrus peels. Usually, a sweet crust of sugar forms during the candying process. Consider us sold!
How To Make Candied Orange Peels
Enjoy our easy step-by-step guide to this delectable treat.
What You'll Need:
- Parchment paper
- Sheet pan
- Cooling rack
- Paring knife
- Peeler
- Cutting board
- Colander
- Fruit & veggie wash
- Measuring cups
- Medium sauce pan
- Spatula
- Thermometer
- Tongs
Ingredients:
- 4 medium-sized oranges
- 2 cups white sugar
- 4 cups water
Instructions:
Step #1: Prep Step
Rinse the oranges in fruit and veggie wash (we recommend Rebel Green Fruit & Veggie Clean, available at Target, Walmart, and local health food stores). Then, line a sheet pan with parchment paper, and place a cooling rack into that pan; set on counter.
Step #2: Get To Peeling
Using peeler, slowly peel the orange in as long of strips as possible. Next, using a paring knife, scrape as much of the white pith off the inside of the peel as you can. This helps to decrease the natural bitterness of the peel and allows the sugar to stick better.
Step #3: The Heat Is On
Heat saucepan over medium-high heat. Add two cups water and the sliced peels. Bring to a boil, then lower heat to simmer for about 15 minutes.
Step #4: Repeat With Sweet
Drain the water. Add two other cups of water and sugar. Then, boil over medium-heat, stirring occasionally.
Step #5: Simmer Time
After the syrup boils, reduce the heat and simmer for about an hour. Stir often, rotating the peels with the spatula to evenly coat.
Step #6: Temp Check
Once the syrup starts to get a gritty feel to it with lots of bubbles, check the temperature. At the point it reaches 250 degrees, immediately remove from heat and transfer to cooling rack.
Step #7: Separate And Cool
Using a fork or tongs, separate the candied peels and let dry on rack for an hour or so. Once completely cooled, store in a glass jar for at least a couple months at room temperature.
How To Use Candied Orange Peels
Now that we have a foolproof recipe for candied peels, what should we do with them? These homemade snacks are perfect in many baked recipes or would be an inventive addition to homemade trail mix. They could even be enjoyed solo as a sweet snack. Candied orange peels are also a cool garnish to top cocktails.