More Than Just Waste
We often think of orange peels as the bitter, inedible wrapping for the sweet fruit inside. However, these rinds are packed with beneficial compounds. They contain a significant amount of vitamin C, fibre, and powerful plant compounds called polyphenols.
While the raw peel itself isn't particularly palatable, a little kitchen alchemy can unlock its potential, turning it from a throwaway scrap into a genuinely enjoyable treat. Embracing a zero-waste philosophy in the kitchen isn't just about reducing landfill; it's about making the most of every part of the food we buy. This recipe for candied orange peels, a classic preserve, does exactly that, giving a second life to something most people discard without a second thought.
Gathering Your Simple Ingredients
One of the best parts of this project is its simplicity. You don’t need a long list of fancy ingredients, just the basics that are likely already in your pantry. For this recipe, you will need the peels from about three to four large, thick-skinned oranges, granulated sugar, and water. Whenever you are using the peel of a fruit, it is best to opt for organic varieties to minimise potential pesticide residue. Be sure to wash the oranges thoroughly before you begin.
Step 1: Preparing the Peels
The first step is to remove the peel from the orange. You can do this after juicing the oranges or slice the peel off fresh fruit. Cut the peels into uniform strips, about a quarter-inch wide. The key to a delicious, non-bitter preserve lies in dealing with the white pith. While you don't need to scrape every last bit off, removing some of the thicker parts can help moderate the bitterness. The next, and most crucial, part of the preparation is blanching. Place the prepared peels in a saucepan, cover them with cold water, bring it to a boil, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes before draining. Repeating this process two or three times with fresh water is essential, as it softens the peels and removes most of their natural bitterness.
Step 2: The Candying Process
After the final blanching, drain the peels well. In the same saucepan, you will create a simple syrup. Combine one-and-a-half cups of sugar with an equal amount of water and bring it to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar has completely dissolved. Add the blanched orange peels to this shimmering syrup. Reduce the heat to low and let the peels simmer gently for 45 to 60 minutes. During this time, the peels will slowly absorb the sweet syrup and become translucent, a sign that they are properly candied. Keep an eye on the pot and stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking or burning as the syrup thickens.
Step 3: Drying and Storing
Once the peels are translucent, use a slotted spoon to carefully remove them from the syrup. Don’t discard the leftover syrup; it's now a delicious orange-infused sweetener perfect for cocktails, teas, or drizzling over pancakes. Spread the hot, sticky peels in a single layer on a wire rack to dry. For a classic finish, you can roll the peels in granulated sugar while they are still slightly tacky. This gives them a lovely crystalline coating and prevents them from sticking together. Let the peels air-dry for several hours, or even overnight, until they are firm but still chewy. Stored in an airtight container, your homemade candied orange peels will last for several weeks at room temperature or even longer if frozen.
Creative Ways to Use Your Preserves
Your jar of glistening citrus jewels is now ready to be enjoyed. Eat them as a sweet and tangy snack on their own, or dip them in melted dark chocolate for a truly gourmet confection. They are also an incredibly versatile ingredient in the kitchen. Finely chop the peels and add them to scone dough, muffin batter, or fruit cakes for a burst of citrus flavour. Use them as an elegant garnish for desserts like chocolate mousse or cheesecake, or sprinkle them over salads for a surprising sweet note. These preserves are not just a way to reduce waste; they are a vibrant ingredient that can elevate your everyday cooking and baking.
