In a world of ever-evolving culinary trends and gourmet creations, there’s something profoundly comforting about the familiar, the old-fashioned, and the nostalgic. One such delight is Old Fashioned Orange Candy, a sweet treat that takes us back to simpler times when candy was homemade and flavors were pure and unadulterated. This recipe, a cherished gem from the past, is a wonderful reminder of the joy of homemade confectionery and the simple pleasure of indulging in a piece of flavorful candy.
Ingredients: The Nectar of Oranges
For this delightful Old Fashioned Orange Candy, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients, many of which you probably already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- 4 large, juicy oranges
- 2 cups of granulated sugar
- 1 cup of water
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- A pinch of salt
- Extra sugar for coating
Instructions: Crafting Your Orange Bliss
Creating this nostalgic orange candy is a labor of love, but the results are more than worth the effort. Here’s how you can do it:
Step 1: Prepare the Oranges
- Wash the oranges thoroughly.
- Cut off the tops and bottoms of the oranges.
- Slice each orange into thin, even rounds, about 1/4 inch thick.
Step 2: Boil the Oranges
- In a large pot, add the orange slices and enough water to cover them.
- Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the oranges simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Drain and repeat this process twice to remove any bitterness from the oranges.
Step 3: Create the Syrup
- In the same pot, combine the sugar, 1 cup of water, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.
- Bring the mixture to a boil while stirring to dissolve the sugar.
- Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the syrup thickens and reaches a soft ball stage. You can check this by dropping a little syrup into cold water; it should form a soft ball.
Step 4: Candy-Coat the Oranges
- Add the blanched orange slices to the syrup.
- Let them simmer gently for about 45-60 minutes, occasionally turning them, until they become translucent and take on a glossy appearance.
- Remove the orange slices from the syrup, allowing any excess syrup to drip off.
Step 5: Dry and Coat
- Place the candy slices on a wire rack to dry for about 24 hours.
- Once dry, roll the candied orange slices in granulated sugar until they are evenly coated.
- Store in an airtight container, separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Variations: Twists of Flavor
While Old Fashioned Orange Candy is a delight in itself, you can experiment with some fun variations to add a modern twist:
1. Spiced Orange Candy: Add a pinch of cinnamon, cloves, or nutmeg to the syrup for a warm, spiced flavor.
2. Zesty Citrus Candy: Combine orange, lemon, and lime slices for a citrusy medley of flavors.
3. Chocolate-Dipped Candy: Dip your candied orange slices in melted dark chocolate for an indulgent contrast.
4. Orange Blossom Candy: Infuse the syrup with a few drops of orange blossom water for a fragrant twist.
Tips: Mastering the Art of Orange Candy
- Patience is Key: Be patient when simmering the oranges in syrup; this is where the magic happens, and the slices turn from ordinary to extraordinary.
- Sticky Situation: Rolling the candied orange slices in sugar while they’re still sticky helps the sugar adhere better.
- Avoid Bitterness: Triple-boiling the orange slices helps remove bitterness, which is crucial for that perfect, sweet orange flavor.
- Use the Best Oranges: Choose the juiciest, most fragrant oranges you can find to capture that authentic orange essence.
As you savor a piece of Old Fashioned Orange Candy, you’re not just tasting a confection; you’re indulging in a bite of history and nostalgia. This timeless treat, with its delightful balance of sweet and citrusy flavors, is a testament to the simple pleasures of the past. While the world of candy has evolved, there’s a timeless charm in crafting your own sweet treats, like this Old Fashioned Orange Candy, that can’t be replicated by any modern confection. So, embrace the old-fashioned and relish the memories it evokes, one orange slice at a time. This candy is not just a dessert; it’s a journey to a sweeter, simpler time.
So, the next time you want to create something truly special, consider making Old Fashioned Orange Candy. It’s a sweet slice of history that will make your taste buds sing and your heart swell with nostalgia. Happy candy-making!
