Ever found yourself throwing away orange peels after enjoying the juicy fruit inside? Hold that thought! You’re about to discover a delightful way to transform those citrus peels into a sweet and flavorful treat. Our “Easiest Candied Orange Peel Recipe” will show you how easy it is to turn overlooked orange peels into a delicious snack or a gourmet topping for desserts. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get crafty in the kitchen with this simple yet impressive recipe.
**Easiest Candied Orange Peel Recipe**
**Ingredients:**
– 4 large oranges
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 2 cups water
– Optional: additional sugar for coating
**Instructions:**
1. Start by washing the oranges thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or residue. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice off the top and bottom ends of each orange.
2. Make vertical cuts on each orange to peel the skin, ensuring you remove most of the white pith. Save the orange insides for another use, perhaps in a fresh citrus salad or juice.
3. Slice the peeled oranges into thin strips. Aim for strips about 1/4-inch wide; you can adjust the size based on your preference.
4. In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium heat. Stir the mixture continuously until the sugar completely dissolves and the syrup starts to bubble.
5. Add the orange peels to the syrup, making sure they are fully submerged. Reduce the heat to low and allow the peels to simmer gently for about 45 minutes or until the peels become translucent and tender.
6. Once the peels have reached the desired texture, use a slotted spoon to transfer them onto a wire rack placed over a baking sheet to cool and drain excess syrup.
7. If you desire a sugary coating on your candied orange peels, roll them in some additional granulated sugar while they are still slightly sticky from the syrup.
8. Let the candied orange peels dry at room temperature for a few hours or overnight, ensuring they are no longer sticky to the touch.
9. Your candied orange peels are now ready to be enjoyed as a standalone snack or used as a garnish for cakes, pastries, or even cocktails. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
Bravo! You have successfully turned humble orange peels into a fancy and delicious treat that will surely impress your guests or make a lovely gift for a friend. The versatility of candied orange peels allows you to get creative in the kitchen and elevate your culinary creations with a burst of citrusy sweetness. Experiment with different citrus fruits and explore new flavor combinations to make this recipe uniquely yours. Enjoy the process of making these candied orange peels and savor every citrusy bite!
