Dried Orange Slices Recipe
Category: Desserts
Servings: 14 slices
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Oranges | 290g |
| Water | 50g |
| Sugar | 65g |
Instructions:
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Prepare the Oranges: Begin by thoroughly washing the oranges under cold running water to remove any dirt or pesticides. Once cleaned, pat them dry with a clean towel. Slice the oranges into thin, even slices, aiming for about 14 slices in total. Set them aside.
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Make the Sugar Syrup: In a small saucepan, pour in the water and sugar, and gently heat over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar is completely dissolved, and the syrup begins to gently bubble but doesn’t fully boil. Once it’s reached this point, turn off the heat and remove the saucepan from the stove.
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Dip the Orange Slices: Carefully dip each slice of orange into the warm sugar syrup, making sure it’s well-coated. This will add a delightful sweetness to the oranges and help them dry to a slightly candied texture. After dipping, transfer each slice onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Arrange them in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap.
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Dry the Orange Slices: Preheat your oven to 100°C (about 212°F) with the static heat setting. Place the tray of orange slices into the oven and allow them to dry for about 2 hours. It’s essential to keep the oven door slightly ajar during this process to allow moisture to escape. After 2 hours, turn off the oven but leave the slices inside to continue drying for an additional 8 hours while the oven cools down. This slow drying process ensures the oranges dry evenly without burning or becoming too tough.
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Finishing Touches: Once the drying time is complete, carefully remove the orange slices from the oven. To add a decorative touch, use a sharp knife to make a small incision in the peel near the top of each slice. This will create a small opening through which you can thread a colorful satin ribbon. Tie a small bow to each slice, turning them into beautiful ornaments.
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Enjoy Your Creation: Your dried orange slices are now ready to be hung on the Christmas tree, added to gift packages, or simply enjoyed as a sweet, fragrant treat. These slices make for an elegant, natural decoration and are also a great gift idea for the holiday season.
Tips:
- Storage: Store your dried orange slices in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. They can last for several weeks when stored properly.
- Flavor Variations: For a different twist, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or cloves to the sugar syrup for a spiced aroma.
- Ornament Use: These dried orange slices are perfect for holiday decorations, but you can also use them for crafting wreaths or garlands.
