CANDIED CITRUS PEEL
oranges or a combination of fruits- I did 3 oranges and 3 lemons
Cut the end off each fruit and score lengthwise in quarters (not cutting through the fruit). Peel the fruits and slice the peels into 1/4 inch strips. If the fruit is extra pithy scrape some of the pith away before cutting. I also like to experiment with cutting the peel into different shapes. Place the peel in a saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook for about 10 minutes. Drain (I save this water and use it to make tea with) and then repeat. This process removes the bitterness. If you want the peel more bitter only boil once.
In the same pot, without the peels, add sugar and water.
2 parts sugar to 1 part water- enough to cover the peels.Boil the peels and syrup until the peels are translucent and most of the syrup is absorbed- stirring occasionally. I don't worry too much about burning the peels because I think oranges especially taste good a little burnt.
Remove the peels and allow to cool slightly on the rack. Sprinkle the peels generously with sugar. Turn the peels over and sprinkle again. Store in an airtight container or refrigerate.
Oranges are prized in Chinese tradition as symbolizing good luck. At the Chinese Lunar New Year (February 14th this year), it is tradition to give away oranges as an expression of good wishes for the year. The word for tangerine is the same as the word for "luck" and the word for orange is the same as the word for "wealth". Apparently in European tradition if a girl is able to peel an orange in one long strip then it can be thrown over the shoulder and will land in position resembling the first letter of the man she will marry (I assume this works for men as well....let me know how it goes).
Nutritionally, orange peel is used in herbalism as a distributor in the body for other herbs because it contains bioflavonoids which strengthen blood capillaries increasing their ability to distribute oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. Because orange peel acts as a tonic to the entire cardiovascular system it makes it antibacterial and antiviral. I imagine that the health benefits of orange peel are partially negated when consumed with so much sugar, but maybe it all balances out.
As an alternative to candying, you can dry peels- either allow sliced strips
of peel to air dry or place the peels in a low oven (around 150 degrees) until they are dry. Store them in an airtight jar throughout the year- they're good added to sauces and teas and soups.
Mandarin peel are prized in Chinese medicine and cooking. It is used in tonics and is added fresh and dried to soups and other dishes. Mandarin peel tea is used for coughs and asthma- because it stimulates circulation and the lymph system flow, helping to remove excess fluid from the body. The tea regulates digestion and is good for nausea and tension- or just as a preventative at this time of year.
To make mandarin tea simply add a tablespoon or so of dry peels to a tea pot and add boiling water. You can add black tea as well if you wish. For a more medicinal tea you can boil the peels for ten minutes or so or add some dried licorice root.
