Making Candy from Fruit Rinds and Peels
Most of us love a sweet treat now and then, but what if I told you that you could make delicious candy out of something you probably throw away? Yes, I’m talking about fruit rinds and peels! Not only is this a great way to reduce waste, but it’s also a fun, easy, and inexpensive way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Let’s dive into how you can turn those seemingly useless fruit scraps into delightful candies.
Why Make Candy from Fruit Rinds and Peels?
Before we get into the “how,” let’s talk about the “why.” First, making candy from fruit rinds and peels is an excellent way to minimize waste. Instead of tossing those peels and rinds into the bin, repurposing them into candy gives them a second, tasty life. Secondly, these parts of the fruit are loaded with flavors, sometimes even more vibrant than the fruit’s flesh. Lastly, it’s a creative and fun activity that can be done alone, with friends, or with kids, teaching valuable lessons about sustainability and cooking.
Choosing the Right Fruits
Not all fruit rinds and peels are created equal when it comes to candy-making. Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits are ideal because of their thick, flavorful peels and natural oils that contribute to an intense taste. Watermelon rind also makes for a surprisingly sweet and crunchy treat. Whichever fruit you choose, make sure it’s thoroughly washed to remove any pesticides or waxes.
Preparing the Peels
For citrus fruits, begin by slicing the top and bottom off and scoring the skin from top to bottom without cutting into the flesh. Gently remove the peel in sections. For fruits like watermelons, simply cut away the outer green skin, leaving the white part, which will be candied.
The next step is to remove the bitterness, especially crucial for citrus peels. This is done through a process called blanching. Simply put the peels in a pot of boiling water for a minute, drain, and then repeat this process two more times with fresh boiling water.
Making the Candy
After blanching, it’s time to make your fruit peels and rinds sweet and irresistible. Here’s a simple method that works wonderfully:
- Simple Syrup: In a medium saucepan, mix equal parts of water and sugar (say, 1 cup of each) and bring to a simmer on low heat, letting the sugar dissolve completely.
- Cooking the Peels: Add the prepared fruit peels to the simmering syrup. Let them cook on low heat until they turn translucent, which usually takes about 45 minutes to an hour. Remember to stir occasionally to ensure that all the peels get evenly coated and don’t stick to the bottom.
- Drying: Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the candied peels from the syrup and transfer them to a wire rack placed over a baking sheet to catch drips. Let them dry for about 4-5 hours or until they are no longer sticky. If you’re in a hurry, you can also put them in an oven set at the lowest temperature for about an hour to speed up the drying process.
- Final Touch: After they’ve dried, roll the candied peels in granulated sugar for an extra sweet crunch. For an optional twist, you can dip them in melted chocolate and let them set for a chocolate-covered delight.
And there you have it, homemade candy from fruit peels and rinds!
Storing Your Candy
These candied peels can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a couple of weeks, making them not just a tasty treat but also a lovely homemade gift.
The Takeaway
Making candy from fruit rinds and peels is a delightful way to reduce waste, enjoy a fun kitchen project, and treat yourself to a homemade sweet. This method isn’t just limited to the fruits mentioned; feel free to experiment with different fruits and flavors. It’s all about creativity, sustainability, and pleasure in making something delicious out of what would otherwise be thrown away.
So next time you find yourself with some leftover fruit peels, remember they hold the potential to be transformed into a delightful, eco-friendly treat. Happy candy-making!
