If you love oranges — or even more, if you have kids who love oranges — you know exactly how much trash they leave behind. Those tasty little fruits are covered in a bitter peel that, unfortunately, doesn’t seem like it has much use.
It’s more than just oranges, of course. Anybody with a love of citrus has to load their trash can up with peels when they’re done. This includes anyone who uses lots of citruses to bake or make mixed drinks.
Here’s the good news: you can turn all those extra citrus peels into delicious, healthy candy.
If “healthy candy” seems like an oxymoron, maybe we should clarify: it’s still got plenty of sugar in it. But in comparison to the stuff you’ll find in the candy aisle at the grocery store, it’s a pretty darn good choice. At the very least, you can tell yourself they’re healthy as you eat them. Plus, you’re cutting back on waste!
This delicious candied citrus peel recipe is super easy and delicious.
“The benefits of citrus are taken to a sweet level with this easy recipe!” warns the poster. “Try it out with your favorite citrus fruit but be prepared to share with your family!”
To make the easy, delicious peels, start by scoring each piece of fruit. Then, cut the smaller pieces into four sections and the larger ones into six. Next, remove the extra bits of fruit, membrane, and pith. Cut the peels into long strips, letting them taper at each end.
Now, it’s time to boil.
Toss all the peels in a pot of cold water and bring it to a boil. Drain the water, cover with more cold water, and bring to a boil again. You should do this process three times in total. What’s the point? It removes all the bitterness from the peel, leaving you with nothing but sweet fruit.
Dissolve 2.5 cups of sugar and 2.5 cups of water by bringing them to boil in a separate saucepan. Once the sugar has dissolved, add the citrus peels.
It’s time to settle in for the long haul.
After it’s come to a boil, reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the mixture bubble for about an hour and a half. Make sure to stir occasionally. When the peels look slightly translucent and the sugar mixture produces big bubbles, you’ll know it’s done.
Drain the sugar, place the peels on a baking sheet, and let them air dry at room temperature.
Sprinkle them with some sugar and store for long-term use. Or you can put it in a festive mason jar to gift to friends and family.
“This fruity candy is delicious on its own, but dipping the ends in melted chocolate or thinned royal frosting makes an extra-special treat,” says the YouTube description.
Just in time for summer, this sweet treat doesn’t just cut back on waste.
It’s also the perfect “healthy” candy to enjoy out in the sunshine.
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