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| Unsweetened Mixed Peel |
Peels from
• 2 grapefruits
• 2 Meyer lemons
• 5 oranges
• 1 mandarin
4 cups sugar
4 cups water
A large pot
Method
⭐ Step 1: Wash & Peel
Wash all fruits well (grapefruit + oranges are usually waxed).
Remove the peel in big sections:
Score into 4–6 pieces
Peel off
Trim excess fruit if needed
Slice peels into:
Small cubes (classic mixed peel)
or
Thin strips (easier for beginners)
⭐ Step 2: Remove Bitterness
Because you’re working with grapefruit + lemon + orange, this step matters.
Put all peels together in a large pot.
Cover with cold water.
Bring to a boil and boil for 2 minutes.
Drain.
Repeat:
3 times total for grapefruit-heavy batches.
Meyer lemon and mandarin are naturally mild and won’t overcook.
Taste a piece... it should be soft with no harsh bitterness.
⭐ Step 3: Make the Syrup
In the same (emptied) pot:
4 cups sugar
4 cups water
Stir to dissolve.
Bring to a simmer.
⭐ Step 4: Candy the Peels
Add all the drained peels into the simmering syrup.
Simmer on low for 45–60 minutes until:
Peels look glossy
Citrus colors brighten
Pieces turn slightly translucent
Syrup thickens slightly
Stir every 8–10 minutes to prevent sticking.
Tip: If it looks too dry, add ¼ cup water.
If too wet, simmer 10 minutes longer.
⭐ Step 5: Dry the Candied Peel
Use a slotted spoon to remove peel from syrup and place on:
Parchment, or
Wire rack
Let dry:
6–8 hours, or
Overnight for the best texture
Optional: Toss with a little sugar when they are tacky not wet.
⭐ Step 6: Mix
Once dry, combine all peel pieces together in a large bowl.
You now have homemade mixed peel with amazing depth from:
Grapefruit (slightly bitter, floral)
Oranges (sweet, classic)
Meyer lemons (bright & perfumed)
Mandarin (soft + sweet)
⭐ Storage
Airtight jar at room temp: 2–3 months
Refrigerator: 6 months
Freezer: 1 year
Keeps BEST when lightly sugared
🍰 Bonus: Save the Syrup!
The leftover citrus syrup is gold. Use it in:
- Tea
- Sparkling water
- Cakes (brush on top)
- Iced tea
- Ginger ale mocktails
- Pancakes/waffles
It stores in the fridge for 4–6 weeks.
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| Mixed Peels prepped for storage! |
Bon appetit!
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