Simple Saturday// Candied Orange Peel

 Guys. This recipe is divine. If you like those candy fruit wedges or chocolate oranges then you have to try making your own candied orange peel. It's super simple and the end candy is chewy and delicious! You could also use grapefruit, lemon, or lime peel. Keep in mind that the candy needs a day or two to dry out so plan ahead!

You will need:
2 oranges
2 cups of sugar
water
1 bar of dark chocolate (optional)

 1. Cut off the ends of your oranges and score the peel. You want to try to keep the peel as intact as possible when you remove it.

2. Remove the excess pith (inner white stuff on the peel) by gently sliding a knife along the peel. Slice the peel into quarter inch slices.

3. Boil the peel slices for 15 minutes. Drain the water, rinse the peels, then drain again. Set aside.

4. In a medium saucepan, combine 3 cups of water with 2 cups of sugar over medium heat. Stir to dissolve the sugar. Bring this to a boil then add the peel. Wait for the sugar water to reach a boil again then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the peel simmer for 45 minutes until very soft. Remove the peel and save the orange syrup for cocktails, ice cream, waffles etc.

5-7. Now you have a few options with what you can do with the peel. You can leave it plain, you can toss it in sugar, or you can coat it in chocolate. If you're leaving it plain, separate the slices on a sheet of foil and let it dry on the counter for a day or two. If you're tossing it with sugar, do so right after cooking then set out on a sheet of foil to dry for a day or two. 

8. If dipping in chocolate, lay the slices out to dry for a day or two then coat in chocolate. I found it easiest to melt my dark chocolate with a bit of butter over a double boiler just to make sure I didn't burn it in the microwave. Let it set up. If you're impatient like me, throw it in the freezer for a few minutes.

9. Devour!