How to Make Sugar-Free Candied Orange Slices: A Healthy and Delicious Treat
Candied orange slices are a delightful snack or perfect for adding a touch of sweetness to desserts. However, traditional recipes often require large amounts of sugar. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, sugar-free candied orange slices are a great option. Here’s a simple, delicious recipe to make these treats at home without the added sugar.
Ingredients:
- 2 organic oranges
- Water
- Natural sweetener (optional)
- Optional: cinnamon, cloves, vanilla (for flavoring)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Oranges: Wash the oranges thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or pesticide residue. Be sure to use organic oranges, as you’ll be using the peel in this recipe.
- Slice the Oranges: Cut the oranges into thin, uniform slices. Remove any seeds from the slices, if necessary.
- Blanch the Orange Slices: In a large pot, bring enough water to a boil to cover the orange slices. Add the slices to the boiling water and let them cook for about 5 minutes. This step will help remove the bitterness from the peel.
- Rinse and Repeat: After blanching, drain the orange slices and rinse them thoroughly under cold water. Repeat the boiling and rinsing process two more times, for a total of three times. This process will make the slices sweeter and less bitter.
- Low-Temperature Baking: Place the orange slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are spaced apart. Preheat your oven to 90°C (194°F) and bake the orange slices for about 2-3 hours. This slow, low-temperature method will dry the slices without burning them.
- Flavoring (Optional): If you’d like to add extra flavor, you can sprinkle the orange slices with cinnamon, cloves, or a touch of vanilla extract before placing them in the oven. This step is optional but adds a delightful aroma and flavor.
- Storage: Once the orange slices are fully dried, let them cool completely on the baking sheet. After cooling, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. These sugar-free candied orange slices will last for several weeks if stored properly.
Additional Notes:
- Natural Sweetener: If you want to add a touch of sweetness, you can use a small amount of natural sweeteners like maple syrup or agave syrup. Just be mindful not to add too much to avoid excess sweetness.
- Other Citrus Variations: You can try this recipe with other citrus fruits like lemons, limes, or grapefruits for a different flavor profile.
Creative Uses for Candied Orange Slices:
Candied orange slices can be used in many different ways to enhance your recipes or serve as a standalone treat. Here are a few ideas:
- As a Snack: Enjoy them on their own as a healthy and delicious snack.
- In Desserts: Use them as a garnish for cakes, cupcakes, or tarts. They also pair wonderfully with chocolate.
- In Beverages: Add them to tea, cocktails, or use them as decorative elements for holiday drinks.
- In Salads: Add a sweet contrast to fruit salads or green salads with these candied orange slices.
- As a Gift: Place the dried slices in a decorative jar or package them beautifully for homemade gifts during holidays or special occasions.
Why Choose Sugar-Free Candied Orange Slices?
Opting for sugar-free candied orange slices offers several benefits:
- Reduced Sugar Intake: Avoiding refined sugars helps you reduce your overall sugar consumption while still enjoying a naturally sweet treat.
- Healthier Option: Without added sugar, these orange slices maintain the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants present in the fruit’s peel and pulp, contributing to your overall health.
- Control Over Ingredients: By making them yourself, you can control the ingredients, avoiding additives and preservatives often found in store-bought versions.
- Versatility: You can modify the recipe to suit your preferences by adding natural sweeteners or aromatic spices to enhance the flavor.
Final Thoughts:
Making sugar-free candied orange slices is a fun and rewarding way to enjoy a sweet treat without compromising on health. Whether you want them as an occasional snack or to use in various recipes, this simple method helps you create flavorful, guilt-free treats. Experiment with different citrus fruits or adjust the flavorings to create personalized variations. Enjoy the natural sweetness of oranges without the extra sugar!