Citrus fruits are bursting with flavor, and when peak season rolls around, you might find yourself with more peels than you know what to do with.
Instead of letting them go to waste, why not transform them into deliciously tangy sour candied citrus peels?
These treats are reminiscent of Sour Patch Kids, offering a delightful mix of sweet and sour in every bite.
Adding a touch of citric acid to the traditional sugar coating really ramps up the tanginess, making these peels taste just like your favorite sour gummy candies.
Plus, they’re an excellent way to use up leftover citrus peels while adding a homemade touch to your snack routine.
Ingredients
- 8-9 citrus fruits (a mix of orange, lemon, grapefruit, blood orange, and lime works well)
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 cups water
- For coating: 1/2 cup granulated sugar + 1 tablespoon citric acid (adjust based on your sour preference)
Step 1: Preparing the Citrus Peels
Start by cutting off the top and bottom of each citrus fruit.
This will give you a stable base to work with.
Next, score the peel vertically from top to bottom about 6-8 times, making sure the cuts are spaced evenly around the fruit.
Once scored, carefully remove the peels. To get rid of the white pith, which can be quite bitter, use a paring knife to scrape it off.
If you prefer, a vegetable peeler can be used, but it often leaves the peels too thin and uneven, which can affect the texture of your finished product.
Aim for uniform thickness to ensure consistent results.
Step 2: Boiling the Peels
Cut the peels into 1/4-inch strips.
Place all of these strips into a saucepan and cover them with water.
Bring the water to a boil and let the peels boil for 3-4 minutes before draining.
To reduce bitterness further, return the peels to the pot, cover them with fresh water, and bring it to a boil again.
Drain immediately after this second boiling.
This double boiling process helps to mellow out the bitterness of the peels and ensures a sweeter end result.
Step 3: Simmering the Peels
In the same pot, add 3 cups of granulated sugar and 2 1/4 cups of water.
Stir over medium-high heat until the sugar has completely dissolved.
Once the sugar is dissolved, bring the mixture to a simmer.
Add the prepared citrus peels to the pot, then reduce the heat to medium-low.
Let the peels simmer for 50-60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
The peels should become translucent and take on a candy-like texture.
Step 4: Drying the Peels
After simmering, use a slotted spoon to transfer the peels to a wire baking rack.
Space them out so they’re not overlapping too much, allowing air to circulate around each piece.
Let the peels dry on the rack for about 30 minutes.
This step is crucial as it helps the peels become firmer and ready for coating.
Step 5: Coating the Peels
While the peels are drying, whisk together 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon citric acid in a bowl.
Taste the mixture and adjust the amount of citric acid according to your preference for sourness.
Once the peels are dry, toss them in the sugar and citric acid mixture until they are well-coated.
The result will be a delightful balance of sweet and sour, with a satisfying chewy texture.
Additional Tips for Success
- Citrus Variety: Using a mix of citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, grapefruits, blood oranges, and limes can provide a complex and exciting flavor profile. Each type of citrus peel will contribute a unique taste and aroma.
- Texture: If you find that the peels are too chewy after drying, you can return them to the simmering syrup for a few more minutes to soften them slightly before drying.
- Storage: Store your candied peels in an airtight container. They should keep well for several weeks, though they’re likely to be eaten much sooner!
Why You’ll Love These Sour Candied Citrus Peels
These sour candied citrus peels are not just a treat but also a fun and creative way to utilize every part of your citrus fruits.
The tangy flavor combined with the sweet coating makes them irresistible, and they offer a satisfying chewiness that’s perfect for snacking.
Whether you’re enjoying them as a sweet indulgence or using them as a garnish for desserts and drinks, they’re sure to impress.
By making these candied peels at home, you can also control the level of sourness to suit your taste, and you’ll be able to enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors of citrus in a whole new way.
So next time you have a bunch of citrus peels lying around, give this recipe a try and treat yourself to a burst of citrusy goodness!
In conclusion, these sour candied citrus peels are a delightful combination of sweet and sour, offering a homemade alternative to store-bought candies.
With a bit of preparation and some patience, you can create a batch of these tasty treats that will remind you of your favorite sour gummy candies.
Enjoy the process and savor the results of your efforts with every zesty bite!