Why Candied Citrus Peel Is a Great Healthy Dessert
When I think about healthy desserts, candied citrus peel often comes to mind as a delightful option. It’s not just sweet; it packs a punch of flavor and nutrition. The bright citrus notes awaken my palate, making it a perfect treat without the guilt.
I love how versatile it is—great on its own or as a topping for yogurt and salads. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover citrus, reducing waste.
Knowing that I’m indulging in something that’s not only tasty but also a bit healthier makes it even better. Trust me, give it a try!
Ingredients of Candied Citrus Peel
When it comes to making candied citrus peel, the first step is gathering your ingredients. You might think it’s a simple task, but trust me, it’s all about picking the right fruit and making sure you have everything you need.
After all, no one wants to be halfway through a recipe only to realize they’ve forgotten something essential. So, let’s get started with what you’ll need to whip up this sweet and zesty treat.
Here’s the list of ingredients you’ll need:
- 3 lemons or 3 oranges (make sure they’re firm and ripe)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
Now, let’s chat a bit about the ingredients themselves. Choosing the right citrus is key—you want them to be fresh and firm, as this will affect the texture of your candied peel.
I mean, who wants mushy candy? Not me. And while granulated sugar is the classic choice for candying, you could experiment with different types of sugar if you’re feeling adventurous.
Just keep in mind that it might change the flavor and color a bit. Remember, cooking is all about exploring, and sometimes the best discoveries happen when you tweak a recipe.
How to Make Candied Citrus Peel
Alright, let’s plunge into the delightful process of making candied citrus peel. First things first, you’ll want to grab your tools and ingredients. You’ve got 3 firm and ripe lemons or oranges, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup of water. Got them? Perfect!
Now, using a swivel-bladed vegetable peeler, carefully peel the zest from your citrus. Remember, you’re trying to avoid that bitter white pith—it’s like the unwanted party crasher of the citrus world. Don’t worry if your peels aren’t perfect; this is candy-making, not rocket science.
Once you’ve peeled your fruit, cut the zest into strips. If you’re planning to use these lovely treats for cakes or tarts, aim for matchstick-sized pieces. But if you’re going the chocolate-dipping route, feel free to make them a bit larger.
Now here’s where we get a little science-y: Place the strips in a small saucepan and cover them with cold water. Bring that to a boil, then drain and rinse them under cold running water. This step helps to remove some of the bitterness, which is a nice little trick I learned after my first batch tasted more like a sour surprise than a sweet treat.
Now, let’s get to the candying magic. Return your strips to the saucepan and add the 1/4 cup of sugar along with that 1/2 cup of water. Cook over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, until the liquid evaporates and the peels become bright and shiny. It’s like watching a glow-up happen right in front of your eyes.
Just keep an eye on it; you don’t want it to burn—trust me, I’ve been there, and it’s not pretty. Once your candied peel is looking all glossy and delicious, spread it out on a sheet of foil to cool, making sure to separate the strips so they don’t stick together.
After they’re cooled, you can store your sweet creations in a sealed jar in the refrigerator, where they’ll happily chill for up to six months. Who knew candy-making could be so satisfying, right?
Candied Citrus Peel Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to mix things up with your candied citrus peel, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to contemplate.
For a twist, try using grapefruit or lime peels instead of lemons or oranges; the flavors are delightful! You can also experiment with different sugars like brown sugar for a deeper caramel taste.
If you’re feeling adventurous, add spices like cinnamon or ginger to the syrup while cooking.
For a colorful touch, mix citrus peels—like pairing orange and lemon.
Finally, consider drizzling dark chocolate over the cooled strips for an indulgent treat.
Enjoy exploring these tasty options!
What to Serve with Candied Citrus Peel
Candied citrus peel adds a delightful burst of flavor to various dishes and treats. I love using it to elevate my baked goods—think cakes, muffins, or even cookies.
It also pairs beautifully with yogurt or cottage cheese for a revitalizing breakfast. If I’m feeling adventurous, I’ll toss it into salads for a zesty twist.
Of course, it’s perfect for snacking on its own or dipping in chocolate for an indulgent treat. Don’t forget to sprinkle it over ice cream or sorbet for an extra kick.
The possibilities are endless, and it always brings a touch of sunshine to my meals!
Additional Tips & Notes
While making candied citrus peel can be a delightful experience, there are a few tips that can help guarantee your results are even better.
First, choose firm, ripe fruit for the best texture and flavor. When cutting the peel, make sure your strips are uniform in size; this guarantees even cooking.
Don’t rush the simmering process—patience is key to that shiny finish. If you want extra sweetness, roll the cooled strips in sugar.
Finally, store your candied peel in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh. Enjoy experimenting, and have fun with different citrus varieties!