National Candied Orange Peel Day

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National Candied Orange Peel Day
United States
National Candied Orange Peel Day

When It Occurs

Every May 4th

Timeline

Days Passed (557)

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May 4th marks the celebration of National Candied Orange Peel Day each year. This day is dedicated to honoring candied orange peel, a sweet delicacy with a rich history spanning centuries. Candied orange peel can be enjoyed on its own, employed as edible decoration, or incorporated as an ingredient in various other sweets. While numerous recipes exist for candied orange peel, the main components typically include sugar, water, and orange peels. The process involves soaking the peel in sugar syrup and allowing it to dry off. Candying fruits serves as an excellent method to transform them into desserts while preserving their flavors.

What is Candied Orange Peel?

Candied orange peel is a traditional confection made by boiling orange peels in sugar syrup until they become soft, sweet, and delicious. The sugar not only enhances the flavor but also preserves the peel, allowing it to be enjoyed long after the orange season has passed. The peels are then dried and can be coated with additional sugar or even dipped in chocolate for an extra treat.

Candied orange peel can be eaten on its own as a snack, used in baking, or included in recipes like fruitcakes, cookies, or chocolate confections. It adds a unique citrusy flavor and chewy texture to dishes, making it a versatile ingredient.

History and Origin

The candied fruit peels, including orange peel, have been part of global culinary traditions for centuries. In Europe, particularly during the Renaissance, candied fruit was considered a luxury item and was enjoyed by royalty and the wealthy.

In the United States, candied orange peel has been used in baking and candy making for generations. While the day may not have deep historical roots, it likely emerged as a way to honor this delightful, yet simple, homemade treat. Over time, it has become a fun and quirky holiday for food enthusiasts to celebrate.

How Candied Orange Peel is Made

Making candied orange peel is a relatively simple process that transforms a part of the fruit often discarded into a delightful sweet snack. Here's how it's typically done:

Ingredients:

  • Orange peels (usually from 2-3 oranges)
  • Sugar
  • Water
  • Optional: Granulated sugar for coating, chocolate for dipping

Directions:

  1. Prepare the Peels: Start by peeling oranges and cutting the peels into thin strips. Remove as much of the white pith as possible, as it can be bitter.
  2. Boil the Peels: Place the peels in a pot of boiling water and cook for 10-15 minutes. This helps soften the peels and reduces bitterness. Drain the water.
  3. Make the Syrup: In the same pot, combine equal parts water and sugar (typically about 1 cup each) to make a simple syrup. Heat until the sugar dissolves.
  4. Candy the Peels: Add the boiled orange peels to the sugar syrup and simmer on low heat for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, until the peels become translucent and absorb the syrup.
  5. Dry the Peels: Once the peels are done, remove them from the syrup and place them on a cooling rack or parchment paper to dry. Let them dry for several hours or overnight.
  6. Optional Coatings: Once dried, the candied peels can be rolled in granulated sugar or dipped in melted chocolate for an extra special touch.

Candied orange peels can be stored in an airtight container and enjoyed for weeks, making them a perfect homemade gift or treat for any occasion.

How to Celebrate National Candied Orange Peel Day

There are several fun and delicious ways to celebrate National Candied Orange Peel Day:

1. Make Your Own Candied Orange Peel

  • The best way to celebrate is by making a batch of homemade candied orange peel. Try following a simple recipe, and experiment with different flavors by adding spices like cinnamon or cloves to the syrup.

2. Experiment with Recipes

  • Candied orange peel can be used in a variety of baked goods, such as cookies, cakes, and scones. You can also add it to chocolate-based desserts or use it as a topping for ice cream.

3. Gift Candied Orange Peel

  • Homemade candied orange peel makes a thoughtful and unique gift. Package it in a decorative jar or bag and give it to friends, family, or coworkers.

4. Enjoy Candied Orange Peel with Chocolate

  • For a decadent treat, dip your candied orange peels in dark or milk chocolate. The combination of citrus and chocolate is a classic and delicious pairing.

5. Learn About Other Candied Fruits

  • Candied orange peel is just one of many fruits that can be candied. Try making candied lemon peel, grapefruit peel, or even candied ginger for a fun culinary experiment.

Fun Facts About Candied Orange Peel

  • Historical Luxury: In medieval Europe, candied fruits, including orange peels, were considered luxury items due to the high cost of sugar.
  • Cultural Significance: In many cultures, candied fruits are popular during holidays, especially Christmas. In Italy, for example, candied orange peel (called "scorzette di arancia") is often enjoyed during the festive season.
  • Used in Famous Desserts: Candied orange peel is an essential ingredient in traditional fruitcakes, panettone (an Italian Christmas bread), and chocolate-covered orange treats like orangettes.

Health Benefits of Orange Peels

While candied orange peels are sweet treats, orange peels themselves offer some health benefits:

  • Rich in Fiber: Orange peels are a good source of dietary fiber, which can aid digestion.
  • Loaded with Vitamin C: The peel contains higher concentrations of vitamin C than the fruit itself, which helps boost immunity.
  • Antioxidant Properties: Orange peels are rich in antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and fight free radicals in the body.

However, the high sugar content in candied orange peels should be enjoyed in moderation.

Conclusion

National Candied Orange Peel Day is a fun and tasty celebration that encourages people to enjoy a unique confection made from an often-overlooked part of the orange. Whether you're making your own batch, adding it to a favorite dessert, or simply snacking on some candied orange peel, this holiday offers a sweet way to enjoy the flavor of citrus.