Mexican Orange Candy

Mexican Orange Candy Recipe | Sweet and Tangy Treat from Mexico

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 24

Introduction

Mexican Orange Candy is a delicious and sweet treat that combines the flavors of caramelized sugar, orange rind, and chopped walnuts. This candy is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and makes a great homemade gift for friends and family.

History

Mexican Orange Candy has been a popular treat in Mexico for many years. It is often made during special occasions and celebrations, such as Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) or Christmas. The combination of caramelized sugar, orange rind, and nuts creates a unique and flavorful candy that is loved by many.

Ingredients

1 cup of caramelized sugar
0.25 cup of Boiling water
2 cups of sugar
1 cup of heavy cream
0.13 tsp of salt
1 tbsp of orange rind
1 cup of chopped walnuts

How to prepare

To prevent burning, keep shaking the pan. Add the boiling water to caramelize the sugar and boil until dissolved.
Add the remaining 2 cups of sugar, salt, and cream.
Boil until the candy reaches the soft ball stage. Just before it is done, add the orange rind.
Remove from the heat and cool by beating. Add the nuts. Drop by the teaspoonful onto waxed paper.
Once the candy has completely set, wrap it in small individual pieces of aluminum foil.
This will keep it fresh indefinitely.

Variations

Try adding different nuts such as pecans or almonds for a different flavor and texture.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm and spicy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to continuously shake the pan while caramelizing the sugar to prevent burning.

- Add the boiling water slowly to the caramelized sugar to avoid splattering.

- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the candy reaches the soft ball stage.

- Beat the candy mixture well after removing it from the heat to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

- Wrap the candy in small individual pieces of aluminum foil to keep it fresh for longer.

Serving Suggestions

Mexican Orange Candy can be enjoyed on its own as a sweet treat or served alongside a cup of coffee or tea.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to continuously shake the pan while caramelizing the sugar to prevent burning.

- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the candy reaches the soft ball stage.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use different types of nuts or omit them altogether if desired.

- You can use orange extract instead of orange rind for a stronger orange flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Mexican Orange Candy can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

Presentation Ideas

Wrap each piece of Mexican Orange Candy in colorful foil wrappers for a festive presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Mexican Orange Candy pairs well with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Mexican Orange Candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Do not refrigerate as it may cause the candy to become too hard.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Mexican Orange Candy contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Mexican Orange Candy contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Mexican Orange Candy contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Mexican Orange Candy contains approximately 2 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Mexican Orange Candy is a good source of vitamin C from the orange rind.

Alergens

Mexican Orange Candy contains nuts and dairy (cream), so it may not be suitable for those with nut or dairy allergies.

Summary

Mexican Orange Candy is a sweet and indulgent treat that is high in carbohydrates and fats. It is best enjoyed in moderation as a special treat.

Summary

Mexican Orange Candy is a delicious and sweet treat that is perfect for special occasions or as a homemade gift. With its combination of caramelized sugar, orange rind, and chopped walnuts, this candy is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Enjoy in moderation for a delightful indulgence.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Rosa in Mexico City. We were sitting in her colorful kitchen, sipping on refreshing agua de jamaica, when she suddenly pulled out a small, tattered notebook from her apron pocket.

"Look what I found, mi amiga," she said with a twinkle in her eye. "It's my abuela's recipe for Mexican Orange Candy."

I leaned in closer, my curiosity piqued. Rosa's abuela was known far and wide for her incredible culinary skills, and I knew that any recipe passed down from her would be a treasure.

As I scanned the ingredients and instructions, I could almost taste the sweet, tangy flavors of the orange candy in my mind. The recipe called for fresh oranges, sugar, and a few simple spices. Rosa explained that the key to making the candy perfectly was to cook it slowly over low heat, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a rich, caramelized syrup.

I was determined to learn how to make this delicious treat, so I asked Rosa if she would teach me. With a smile, she agreed, and we spent the rest of the day in her kitchen, peeling oranges, squeezing juice, and stirring the bubbling mixture in a large pot.

As the scent of citrus and sugar filled the air, Rosa shared stories of her abuela and the many recipes she had passed down through the generations. I listened intently, absorbing every detail and technique she shared with me.

After several hours of cooking and stirring, the orange candy was finally ready. We poured it into small molds and let it cool until it hardened into shiny, amber-colored discs. I couldn't wait to taste the fruits of our labor.

When I finally took a bite of the Mexican Orange Candy, I was transported to a place of pure bliss. The flavors were a perfect balance of sweet and tangy, with a hint of warmth from the spices. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before, and I knew that I had found a new favorite recipe to add to my collection.

From that day on, I made Mexican Orange Candy whenever I wanted to bring a taste of Mexico into my home. I shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition that Rosa had so generously shared with me.

Years passed, and I continued to make the candy, each batch a reminder of the special day I spent with Rosa in her kitchen. The recipe became a staple in my repertoire, a symbol of the friendship and culinary heritage that had brought us together.

Now, as I sit in my own kitchen, surrounded by the aroma of simmering oranges and sugar, I can't help but feel grateful for the memories and connections that this simple recipe has brought into my life. It serves as a reminder of the power of food to bring people together, to bridge cultures and create lasting bonds.

As I package up a batch of Mexican Orange Candy to share with my neighbors, I can't help but smile at the thought of the joy and delight it will bring to their taste buds. And as I pass on the recipe to the next generation, I know that the tradition of making this sweet, flavorful treat will continue to thrive, just as it has for centuries in the kitchens of families across Mexico.

And so, with a heart full of gratitude and a stomach full of delicious candy, I raise a toast to Rosa, her abuela, and the culinary legacy they have passed down to me. May the flavors of Mexico always find a home in my kitchen, and may the bonds of friendship and tradition continue to grow strong with each batch of Mexican Orange Candy I make. Salud!