Are you a fan of mandarins? If so, you’re in for a delightful surprise! Today, we’re going to share a creative and tasty way to make use of those mandarin peels that you might usually discard. Get ready to whip up a delicious recipe that’s not only easy to make but also a fantastic way to reduce waste and add some excitement to your snacks!
Mandarins are known for their sweet and refreshing flavor, but did you know that their peels also have a lot to offer? Mandarin peels are bursting with aromatic oils and wonderful citrusy goodness that can be transformed into a delightful treat. Instead of tossing them away, let’s put them to good use and create something truly special.
The Zesty Mandarin Candy Recipe
Ingredients:
- Mandarin peels
- Sugar
- Water
Instructions:
- Start by collecting mandarin peels from your favorite mandarins. Make sure to peel them carefully, avoiding any pith.
- Slice the peels into thin strips. You can cut them into any size or shape you prefer.
- Place the mandarin peels in a saucepan and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This will help remove any bitterness from the peels.
- Drain the water from the saucepan and repeat the process one more time. This helps in further reducing bitterness.
- After the second boiling, drain the water again and set the peels aside.
- In a clean saucepan, combine equal parts of sugar and water. For example, if you have 1 cup of sugar, use 1 cup of water.
- Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar completely dissolves.
- Add the mandarin peels to the sugar syrup and let them simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- As the syrup thickens, you’ll notice the mandarin peels becoming translucent and coated with a sweet glaze. Keep an eye on them, and once they reach the desired consistency and tenderness, you can remove them from the heat.
- Allow the candied mandarin peels to cool down for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to dry completely. Make sure they are not touching each other to avoid sticking.
- Once dry, you can store the candied mandarin peels in an airtight container for up to two weeks. They make for a delightful snack or a topping for cakes, desserts, and even cocktails! Enjoy the burst of citrusy flavor with every bite.
Transforming your mandarin peels into this delightful treat is not only a great way to minimize waste but also an exciting culinary adventure. Try this recipe today and surprise your taste buds and those of your loved ones. Happy cooking!