Hey there, fellow art enthusiasts! Today we’re venturing into the kitchen to explore a craft that’s as delightful to create as it is to savor: homemade candied citrus peel.
Have you ever tasted store-bought candied orange or lemon peel and felt like it lacked that certain zing? Let me tell you, nothing compares to the vibrant flavors and aromas of homemade candied citrus peel. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and adds a touch of gourmet flair to your baking and desserts.
candied orange peel recipe lemon how to make homemade citrus
Why Choose Homemade Candied Citrus Peel?
Here at Robert Kline Art, we’re all about embracing creativity and the beauty of handcrafted goodness, and this recipe aligns perfectly with that ethos. Here’s why you should ditch the store-bought stuff and embrace the homemade goodness:
- Purity and Flavor: Commercially-produced candied peel often contains preservatives, additives, and lacks that fresh, zesty flavor we crave. When you make it at home, you control the ingredients, ensuring a purer, more flavorful experience.
- Creative Freedom: While orange and lemon peels are the classics, don’t be afraid to experiment! Grapefruit, lime, and even mandarin oranges make fantastic candied peels, each with its unique character.
- Economical and Sustainable: Instead of discarding those citrus peels, transform them into a gourmet treat. It’s a fantastic way to minimize waste and get the most out of your ingredients.
The Art of Candying Citrus Peels: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ready to embark on this delicious journey? Let’s gather our supplies and dive into the process of transforming ordinary citrus peels into extraordinary treats.
What You’ll Need:
- Citrus Fruits: Choose organic oranges, lemons, grapefruits, or limes (or a mix!), ensuring they’re firm and fragrant.
- Sugar: Granulated white sugar is our primary sweetener.
- Water: Essential for both boiling the peels and creating the sugary syrup.
Instructions:
- Preparing the Citrus Peels:
- Wash and scrub your citrus fruits thoroughly to remove any dirt or residue.
- Carefully cut off the ends of each fruit and score the peel into quarters, avoiding cutting too deeply into the flesh.
- Peel off the rind in segments, trying to keep the strips relatively uniform in thickness.
- Slice the peels into strips about ¼ inch wide.
- Blanching the Peels:
- Place the citrus peels in a pot, cover them with water, and bring to a boil.
- Boil for 15 minutes, then drain and rinse the peels. Repeat this process two more times to minimize bitterness.
- Creating the Candied Coating:
- In the same pot, combine equal parts sugar and water (e.g., 1 cup sugar and 1 cup water).
- Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Add the blanched citrus peels to the syrup and reduce heat to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peels become translucent and the syrup thickens slightly.
- Coating the Candied Peels:
- Spread granulated sugar on a baking sheet or tray.
- Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the candied peels from the syrup, allowing excess syrup to drip back into the pot.
- Toss the peels in the granulated sugar, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
- Drying and Storing Your Masterpieces:
- Arrange the sugar-coated peels in a single layer on a wire rack to dry completely. This process usually takes 1-2 days.
- Once dry, store your candied citrus peels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a month, or freeze for longer storage.
Tips and Tricks from Robert Kline Art:
- Pith Preferences: While the white pith can be slightly bitter, I prefer to leave a thin layer on for a chewier texture. However, feel free to remove it entirely for a more delicate candied peel.
- Syrup Savvy: Don’t discard that citrus-infused syrup! It’s liquid gold! Use it to sweeten cocktails, brush over cakes, or drizzle over ice cream for an extra burst of flavor.
- Creative Candying: This recipe isn’t limited to citrus peels! Experiment with candying ginger, pineapple, or even watermelon rind for unique and delicious treats.
Unleash Your Inner Artist in the Kitchen!
Making candied citrus peel is a simple yet rewarding experience. It’s about transforming everyday ingredients into something extraordinary with a touch of creativity and patience. So, gather your citrus fruits and unleash your inner artist in the kitchen!
Don’t forget to share your culinary creations with us! Leave a comment below and tell us about your favorite ways to use candied citrus peel. And for those looking for unique, handcrafted gifts, be sure to browse the beautiful selection on the Robert Kline Art website. Happy crafting!