Spiced Orange Mold
A vibrant, spiced orange mold combining mandarin oranges with warm cinnamon and cloves, perfect as a refreshing dessert or festive treat for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain oranges; reserve syrup.
- Add water to syrup to make 1 3/4 cups.
- In a saucepan, mix syrup, salt and spices.
- Cover and simmer for ten minutes.
- Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for ten minutes longer.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more vibrant flavor, consider adding a splash of orange juice or zest to the syrup mixture. If you prefer a spicier note, you can substitute allspice for the cloves. To make this dish vegan, ensure the gelatin used is plant-based. Also, using fresh oranges instead of canned can enhance the texture and taste.
Serving Suggestions
This Spiced Orange Mold makes a delightful side dish or dessert. Serve it chilled on a bed of fresh greens for a refreshing salad, or pair it with roasted meats for a lovely contrast. It also complements dishes like Chunky Cider Applesauce well, offering a sweet and spiced flavor balance.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To serve later, simply cut into slices and enjoy chilled. If the mold becomes too firm, you can let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spiced Orange Mold contains roughly 985 calories, with 24g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 85g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (95% of the Daily Value), iron (52% of the Daily Value), and protein (48% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1867mg per serving (81% of the Daily Value).
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 fresh oranges instead of canned?
Yes, using fresh oranges can enhance the flavor and texture of the dish. Just make sure to segment them properly and reserve some juice to mix with the water for the syrup.
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the Spiced Orange Mold a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe and refrigerate it after it sets. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it an excellent make-ahead dish.
What can I substitute for the nuts?
If you're allergic to nuts or prefer not to use them, you can substitute sunflower seeds or omit them entirely. This will maintain the integrity of the dish while accommodating dietary needs.
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).