Lemon Ginger Candied Peels

I’m very much a person who loves to give gifts, and when I can make them, even better! Christmas is almost here and I’m busy putting my food baskets together for my family and you bet these will be a part of it! The ginger gives these peels extra depth, but if you don’t like ginger just leave it out! Perfect as a garnish or consumed on its own, these are a fun treat that you don’t see too often. Cheers!

Ingredients:

7 lemons shaved (use a vegetable peeler)

1 1/2 cup sugar

1/2 cup water 

2 tbsp fresh ginger root peeled

Directions:

Note: Before candying your peels you will need to shave the rind of the lemons using a vegetable peeler, make sure you don’t get any of the white pith, but if you do it’s not a big deal, you’ll just boil the peels an extra time. It’s important to remove the acridness of the peels, otherwise the aftertaste can be rough from the natural oils! 

1. Shave your lemons and cut the peels to your desired size

2. In a medium saucepan add your peels and enough water to cover and bring to a boil. Let peels boil for two minutes, then strain from water and repeat the step 3 times

3. After the last boil and drain, add sugar and water to the saucepan on medium low heat and allow sugar to dissolve

4. Once sugar has dissolved add lemon peels and cut ginger root (I keep my root in discs, no need to dice) and simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour 

5. By this time your peels will start to become translucent and if you like the look and texture it’s time to remove from heat and drain. Make sure you strain the simple syrup into a jar so you can use it for cocktails, don’t forget to add the candied ginger root! 

6. After straining peels, separate them onto a parchment lined baking sheet to dry (best to dry over night)

7. Once peels have dried they will still be sticky, sprinkle sugar over them for a crystallized look and place in airtight container until ready to consume!