From scratch to snack: crafting candied orange peel at home

The fragrant candied orange peel is a delightful addition to many cakes and desserts, especially those during the holiday season. Rather than purchasing it from the store, I prefer to prepare it at home. The process is incredibly simple!

Candied orange peel serves as the perfect enhancement to poppy seed rolls, cheesecakes, and fruitcakes. It activates the flavour of Christmas gingerbread and fills the kitchen with a lovely aroma. Even though it can be found in most supermarkets, making it at home is not only simple but also affordable. Plus, I am absolute about the quality of the ingredients I use. Only a few basic products are required to make your own candied orange peel at home.

The citrusy aroma of the pre-holiday period is captivating. Instead of discarding the peels, it's worthwhile to save them for baking. This of course aligns perfectly with the zero waste trend that is now prevalent in many homes. I often add such peels not only to confections but also to warming winter teas.

Ingredients:

• 3 oranges
• 3/4 cup of sugar
• A few tablespoons of water

Method of Preparation:

1. First, thoroughly scrub the oranges, wash them, and blanch with boiling water.
2. Then, quarter the fruit and remove the skin.
3. Remove the white layer (or albedo) from the inner part of the peel. Make sure to do this thoroughly to avoid a bitter taste.
4. Next, cube the peel, put it in a deep frying pan, and cover with sugar.
5. Saute the peel with the sugar for about 30 minutes.
6. If you observe that the peel is burning, decrease the heat and add a few tablespoons of water.
7. Lastly, store the cooled candied orange peel in a tightly sealed jar in the refrigerator.

Those with a sweet tooth will no doubt appreciate that this peel pairs well with numerous baked goods. It's a key ingredient in doughnut icing, poppy seed roll filling, Christmas Eve kutia, and traditional cheesecake. It also belongs in fruitcake, adds a nice touch to cookies, and splendidly enriches holiday gingerbread.