Spiced Candied/crystallized Orange Rind

Total Time: 72 hrs 30 mins Preparation Time: 72 hrs Cook Time: 30 mins

Ingredients

• 3 -4 thick-skinned navel oranges
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup cold water
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
• 1 teaspoon oranges (optional) or 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• granulated sugar, for rolling the orange rinds in

Recipe

• 1 quarter the oranges and remove from the rind. scrape to remove the flesh and all pith. cut lengthwise into thin 2-inch long strips.
• 2 in a large saucepan filled with cold water, place orange rind strips. bring just to a boil, remove from heat, and strain. repeat this step two times. rind should be tender and translucent.
• 3 in a saucepan over a medium heat, completely dissolve the 1 cup of sugar in 1 cup of water. optional ingredients of cinnamon, orange or almond extract may be added to sugar syrup if desired for flavor. reduce heat to low; add the orange rinds and let simmer approximately 20 to 30 minutes or until the orange rinds are translucent. using a slotted spoon, remove candied orange rind, shaking off excess syrup.
• 4 immediately toss with sugar, using fork to separate pieces so they do not touch. place on a wire rack to cool and dry. drying may take a 2 to 3 days otherwise they will weep once sealed.
• 5 store in an airtight container for one week. when ready to serve candied orange rinds may be dipped in chocolate.