Pin Sweet, glossy orange slices are a beautiful and simple way to add a romantic touch to Valentine's cocktails or desserts. These translucent treats are simmered in a sugar syrup until they reach a sparkling finish, making them as delicious as they are decorative.
Pin Creating these candied citrus rounds involves a gentle simmering process that transforms the rinds into a translucent, sweet confection. This method removes the bitterness of the peel, leaving behind a concentrated citrus flavor and a beautiful stained-glass appearance.
Ingredients
- Citrus: 2 medium seedless oranges, well scrubbed
- Simple Syrup: 2 cups (400 g) granulated sugar
- Simple Syrup: 2 cups (480 ml) water
Instructions
- Preparation
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Slicing
- Using a sharp knife or mandoline, slice the oranges crosswise into 1/8-inch (3 mm) rounds. Discard ends and any seeds.
- Prepare Syrup
- In a large, wide saucepan, combine sugar and water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
- Simmer
- Carefully add the orange slices in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Simmer gently over low heat, turning occasionally, until the rinds look translucent, about 40–45 minutes.
- Transfer
- Use tongs to transfer the slices to the prepared baking sheet. Arrange in a single layer.
- Drying
- Let cool and air-dry for at least 4 hours or overnight until no longer sticky.
- Storage
- Once dry, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To speed up the drying process, you can place the slices in a 200°F (95°C) oven for 30–40 minutes. For an extra sparkle, dip the wet slices in superfine sugar before they begin the drying phase.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For variety, you can use blood oranges or tangerines instead of standard oranges to achieve different colors and flavor profiles. If following a strict vegan diet, always check sugar processing methods to ensure they meet your requirements.
Serviervorschläge
These slices are ideal for garnishing sophisticated cocktails or decorating cakes and chocolate desserts. Their glossy, sweet finish provides both a visual and flavorful enhancement to any romantic dish.
Pin Each slice contains approximately 52 calories and 13 grams of carbohydrates, making them a light yet flavorful addition to your culinary creations. Enjoy the simple elegance these candied oranges bring to your kitchen.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I achieve the glossy look on candied orange slices?
Simmering the slices gently in sugar syrup allows the rinds to become translucent and glossy as they absorb the liquid and sugar dissolves evenly.
- → Can I use other citrus fruits for candied slices?
Yes, blood oranges, tangerines, or other citrus can be substituted for varied color and flavor profiles.
- → What is the best way to dry candied orange slices?
Air-drying them on a baking sheet for several hours or overnight allows excess moisture to evaporate, forming a slightly tacky but not sticky finish.
- → How should candied slices be stored for freshness?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to preserve texture and flavor.
- → Can candied orange slices be sweetened further after drying?
For extra sparkle, dip slices in superfine sugar before drying to add a delicate sugary coating.