Candied Orange Rinds

Ingredients:

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

Directions:

Quarter the oranges and remove from the rind. Scrape to remove the flesh and all white pith. Cut lengthwise into thin 2-inch strips.

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.

In a saucepan over a medium heat, completely dissolve the 1 cup of sugar in 1 cup of water. Optional ingredients of 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 1 hour or longer or until the orange rinds are translucent. Using a slotted spoon, remove candied orange rind, shaking off excess syrup.

Immediately toss with sugar, using fork to separate pieces so they do not touch. Place on a wire rack to cool and dry.

Store in an airtight container for one week. When ready to serve candied orange rinds may be dipped in chocolate.

Tags: candied orange rinds, orange rinds recipe, tea recipes, tea treats