Harnessing the Power of Citrus Peels: Crafting Healthy Candy and Reducing Food Waste

In our kitchens, we often throw away citrus peels without realizing their potential. They're not compost-friendly due to their acidity and oil content. But what if I told you that you could turn these peels into a yummy, healthy snack? Yes, you can! With a bit of effort, you can transform them into citrus peel candy.

The Problem with Citrus Peels

Before delving into the culinary adventure of citrus peel candy, let's address why these peels pose a challenge for compost. While they are biodegradable, certain conditions must be met for backyard composting to effectively break them down. Citrus peels, owing to their acidity and high oil content, can upset the balance of a compost pile, hindering decomposition and attracting pests. Therefore, we recommend avoiding tossing them in the compost altogether. So, what to do with these leftover peels?

The Solution: Citrus Peel Candy

Crafting citrus peel candy not only mitigates waste but also transforms an often-overlooked ingredient into a delightful treat. Scroll down for a simple recipe to get you started.

Benefits Beyond Taste

Beyond their delicious flavor, homemade citrus peel candy offers a multitude of health benefits. Citrus peels are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, including vitamin C, flavonoids, and pectin. These nutrients contribute to improved immune function, digestion, and heart health. By incorporating citrus peels into your diet through homemade candy, you're not only indulging your sweet tooth but also nourishing your body with natural goodness.

The journey from discarded citrus peels to delicious candy is a testament to the ingenuity of sustainable cooking. By repurposing these often-overlooked scraps, we not only reduce waste but also create a flavorful treat that is both nutritious and satisfying. So, the next time you find yourself with a surplus of citrus peels, don't toss them away—turn them into a delightful candy that's as good for your taste buds as it is for the planet. Happy crafting and snacking!

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Recipe

Prep Time: 20 mins Cook Time: 45 mins Total Time: 1 hr 5 mins

Additional Drying Time: 8 hrs

Ingredients:

• 3 Navel oranges and 4 lemons (or grapefruits, lime, or any citrus fruit of your choice)

• 2 cups sugar (or alternative sweeteners like honey or maple syrup)

• 1 cup water

• Granulated sugar for coating

• Optional: spices such as cinnamon or cloves for added flavor, melted chocolate for coating

Instructions:

1. Wash the citrus fruits well. Use a knife or peeler to remove the outer peel, making sure to avoid the bitter white part.

2. Place the citrus peels in a pot of boiling water and let them simmer for about 10-15 minutes to soften and help remove bitterness. Drain the peels in a colander and rinse. Repeat this process two more times.

3. In another pot, mix sugar and water to make a syrup. Boil it for a couple of minutes until the sugar is dissolved.

4. Add the citrus peels, reduce the heat and simmer for about 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peels become translucent and the liquid becomes lightly syrupy.

5. Take the peels out of the syrup with a slotted spoon and coat them in granulated sugar. Or dip them in melted chocolate if you like.

6. Place peels on a wire rack to cool and dry completely, about 1-2 days.

7. Flavor Infusion (Optional): Enhance the candy with additional flavorings such as cinnamon, cloves, or vanilla extract. These spices not only add depth to the candy but also boast their own array of health benefits.

Now it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labour! Stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, the candied citrus peel will keep for at least a month. They’ll keep even longer in the fridge and for a few months frozen. 

Finally, DON’T DISCARD THE CITRUS SYRUP!

This is a wonderful citrus-flavored simple syrup to add to your drinks for a wonderful kick of citrus flavor!