Candied Satsuma Mandarin Peel

Chop these up into oatmeal in the morning for a special treat, sprinkle on ice cream, or eat by themselves as a snack.

INSTRUCTIONS

Using a vegetable brush, scrub the mandarins using warm water. Gently peel the mandarins without tearing the peels too much, then cut peels into 1/8-inch thick matchsticks.

Place peels in a pot of cold water, and bring to a boil over medium heat. Simmer for 5 minutes and strain. Repeat this step 2 more times. On the last time, let the peel simmer in the water for 30 minutes. (This removes the bitterness from the pith and peels).

Strain the peels, reserving the water. Return 2 cups water to the pot (add more if needed to get 2 cups.) Add 2 cups sugar and the peels to the pot; gently stir to combine. Let simmer 30 -35 minutes over medium-low heat, until the peels are translucent and soft. (Do not stir the mixture or it will crystallize).

Once the peels are translucent, turn off the heat and allow to cool.

Preheat the oven to the lowest temperature, about 150-175 degrees F.

Carefully remove the peels with a fork or strainer and put them in one single layer on a wire rack set on a lined baking sheet. Bake for about 45 minutes, or until dry. Remove from the oven and immediately toss them in the remaining 1 cup sugar. Let cool completely before storing.

  PRINT VERSION