Candied Citrus Zest: Sweet and Tangy Vegan Garnishes
Can’t get enough of that freshly squeezed citrus flavor? Try turning your favorite fruits into beautiful and delicious vegan garnishes with our easy candied citrus zest recipe!
Introduction
Citrus fruits are not only packed with vitamin C but also add a burst of flavor to any dish. However, when you’re following a vegan diet, it can be challenging to find creative ways to incorporate these ingredients without using animal products. That’s where candied citrus zest comes in!
In this post, we’ll show you how to make candied citrus zest using simple ingredients like agave nectar, maple syrup, and coconut oil. These sweet and tangy treats are perfect for garnishing salads, desserts, or even adding a pop of color to your morning smoothie.
What You’ll Need
Here’s a list of ingredients and tools you’ll need to make candied citrus zest:
Ingredients:
– 1 large orange (or other citrus fruit)
– 1 tablespoon agave nectar or maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon coconut oil
– A pinch of salt
Tools:
– A sharp knife or vegetable peeler
– A small saucepan
– A heatproof bowl
– A spoon
– A baking sheet lined with parchment paper
Instructions
Now that you have everything you need, let’s get started!
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 200°F (95°C). This low temperature is essential for keeping the citrus zest from cooking and losing its vibrant color.
Step 2: Prepare the citrus
Using a sharp knife or vegetable peeler, carefully remove the zest (the outermost layer) of the citrus fruit. Be sure not to include any white pith, as this can give the candy a bitter taste.
Step 3: Combine the ingredients
Place the zest in a heatproof bowl and add the agave nectar, maple syrup, coconut oil, and salt. Mix well until the zest is evenly coated.
Step 4: Spread the mixture onto the baking sheet
Transfer the mixture to a silicone brush or a pastry bag fitted with a small round tip. Brush the mixture generously onto the prepared baking sheet, making sure each piece of zest is completely covered.
Step 5: Bake for 2 hours
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 2 hours, or until the zest is dry and crisp.
Step 6: Remove from the oven and cool
After two hours, remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the candied citrus zest to cool completely. Once cooled, break or cut the larger pieces into smaller pieces.
Step 7: Store in an airtight container
Once cooled, transfer the candied citrus zest to an airtight container. They will keep stored at room temperature for up to two weeks or in the freezer for up to three months.
Tips and Variations
– Use different types of citrus: Experiment with different citrus fruits like lemons, limes, grapefruits, and blood oranges. Each type of citrus has its unique flavor and color profile.
– Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter treat, use more agave nectar or maple syrup. For a less sweet version, reduce the amount of liquid used in the recipe.
– Add natural food coloring: Want to create a rainbow of colors? Simply add a few drops of natural food coloring to the liquid mixture before brushing it on the baking sheet.
Conclusion
With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can easily turn fresh citrus fruits into beautiful and delicious vegan garnishes. So next time you’re looking for a way to incorporate more citrus into your diet, try making some candied citrus zest!
