69 lines
2.6 KiB
Markdown
69 lines
2.6 KiB
Markdown
# Complete Guide to Crafting Perfect Candied Orange Peels
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## Ingredients:
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- 4 large organic oranges
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- 3 cups granulated sugar (plus extra for coating)
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- 3 cups water
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## Equipment:
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- Sharp knife
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- Large pot
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- Slotted spoon
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- Cooling rack
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- Parchment paper
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- Airtight container for storage
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## Instructions:
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### 1. Selecting and Preparing Oranges:
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- Choose organic oranges with thick, unblemished peels.
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- Wash oranges thoroughly under cool running water.
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- Cut the top and bottom off each orange.
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- Score the peel from top to bottom in quarters.
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- Carefully remove the peel in large pieces, keeping as much pith attached as possible.
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- Cut the peels into strips about 1/4 inch wide.
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### 2. Blanching the Peels:
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- Place the peels in a large pot and cover with cold water.
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- Bring to a boil over high heat.
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- Drain the water and repeat this process two more times.
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- This blanching process removes bitterness from the peels.
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### 3. Preparing the Syrup:
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- In the same pot, combine 3 cups of sugar and 3 cups of water.
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- Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.
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### 4. Candying the Peels:
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- Add the blanched peels to the syrup.
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- Bring to a simmer over medium-low heat.
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- Reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer.
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- Cook for 1-2 hours, or until the peels become translucent.
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- Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
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### 5. Drying and Coating:
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- Line a cooling rack with parchment paper.
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- Use a slotted spoon to remove the peels from the syrup.
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- Allow excess syrup to drip off.
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- Place the peels on the prepared cooling rack.
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- Let cool for about 15 minutes.
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- Pour about 1 cup of granulated sugar into a shallow dish.
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- Gently toss the cooled peels in the sugar to coat.
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### 6. Final Drying:
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- Return the sugar-coated peels to the cooling rack.
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- Allow to air dry for 24-48 hours, or until they are no longer sticky.
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### 7. Storage:
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- Store the candied peels in an airtight container.
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- They will keep at room temperature for up to a month.
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- For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 3 months.
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## Tips for Perfect Candied Orange Peels:
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1. Use organic oranges to avoid pesticides on the peel.
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2. Don't rush the candying process - a slow, gentle simmer produces the best results.
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3. If you prefer less sweet peels, reduce the sugar in the syrup to 2 cups.
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4. Save the leftover orange-infused syrup for cocktails or as a sweetener for tea.
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5. Experiment with other citrus fruits like lemons, limes, or grapefruits.
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6. For a gourmet touch, dip half of each candied peel in melted dark chocolate.
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Enjoy your homemade candied orange peels as a sweet treat, a garnish for desserts, or as a thoughtful homemade gift! |