Peel - Candied
Sweet and citrusy candied mandarin peels add vibrant flavor to desserts or snacks, perfect for those who enjoy citrus zest with a chewy, sugary coating.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Save all of your mandarin peels.
- Slice the mandarin peels into thin strips and dry them for future flavoring.
- Dry the peels in a conventional food dryer, in the sun, or in a very low oven until completely dried.
- Store the dried peels in an airtight jar.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your candied mandarin peels, consider adding a pinch of salt or a splash of lemon juice during the cooking process. If you don’t have mandarins, you can substitute with oranges or lemons for a different taste. For a quicker drying method, use a microwave on low power in short bursts, but watch closely to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions
Dried candied mandarin peels make a delightful addition to desserts or can be used as a garnish for cocktails. They pair beautifully with Something With Nothing(Or A Smashing Spoof; Diabetic) for a unique twist. You can also chop them up and add them to your morning oatmeal or yogurt for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store your dried mandarin peels in an airtight jar in a cool, dark place to maintain their flavor and texture. They can last for several months when properly stored. If you'd like to use them later, consider rehydrating by soaking in warm water for about 10 minutes before use in recipes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peel - Candied contains roughly 141 calories, with 3g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (61% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the whole mandarin instead of just the peels?
While the whole fruit can be used in recipes, this specific recipe focuses on the peels for their concentrated flavor and texture. Using the entire mandarin would require different preparation and cooking methods, which are not covered in this recipe.
How can I tell when the peels are fully dried?
The peels are fully dried when they become hard and brittle, with no moisture left. They should snap easily when bent. This usually takes several hours depending on the drying method, so check periodically to avoid over-drying.
What can I use candied mandarin peels for?
Candied mandarin peels are versatile and can be used in a variety of ways. They can be added to baked goods, used as a topping for ice cream, or included in trail mixes. Additionally, they can be incorporated into savory dishes to add a hint of sweetness.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).